When Can You Workout After Arm Lift Surgery?

When Can You Workout After Arm Lift Surgery?

Introduction 

Arm lift surgery is also known as brachioplasty. It is a popular cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms. It results in a more toned and defined appearance. While the results can be transformative, it’s essential to give your body time to heal properly before resuming exercise. In this article, we’ll explore when you can safely return to working out after arm lift surgery. It will also give tips for easing back into physical activity and what to avoid during recovery.

Why Rest is Important After Arm Lift Surgery

After undergoing arm lift surgery, your body needs time to recover from the procedure. Proper healing is essential for achieving the best results and avoiding complications.

• Healing Process: During the initial phase of recovery, your body is healing from incisions. The tissues need time to adjust. Strenuous activity can place too much strain on the arms. Potentially leading to poor healing or increased scarring.
• Minimising Swelling: Exercise too soon can cause increased swelling and discomfort. It’s important to let the swelling subside before engaging in physical activity.

Initial Recovery: The First Two Weeks

In the first two weeks after arm lift surgery, rest is crucial for optimal healing. During this period, your arms are vulnerable. You should avoid any activities that involve lifting or moving your arms extensively.

• First Week: During the first week, your surgeon will likely advise you to keep your arms elevated to reduce swelling. Gentle movements, such as light walking, are encouraged. This will promote circulation and prevent blood clots.
• Avoid Arm Movements: Refrain from raising your arms above shoulder height or lifting anything heavier than a few kilos. This includes household tasks. Such as carrying groceries or reaching for objects on high shelves.

When Can You Start Light Exercise?

You can begin incorporating light activity into your routine after arm lift surgery. But it’s important to do so cautiously.

• Weeks 3-4: After the initial two weeks of rest, you may be able to start light walking.  Engage in lower-body exercises that don’t involve your arms. These activities can help maintain your fitness without placing stress on your healing arms.
• Avoid Resistance Training: Avoid any form of resistance training, weightlifting, or upper-body exercises during this time. The tissues in your arms are still healing. Lifting weights too soon can interfere with the recovery process.

Returning to Moderate Exercise

After four to six weeks, you may gradually begin to return to moderate exercise. As long as you have the approval of your surgeon.

• Weeks 6-8: By this time, most patients can return to light upper-body activities. It’s important to avoid exercises that directly target the arms. Focus on lower-body exercises to maintain overall fitness.
• Resistance Bands: If your surgeon approves, you can start incorporating light resistance bands for lower-body workouts. However, keep in mind that upper-body exercises should still be avoided.

When Can You Resume Full Workouts After Arm Lift Surgery?

Most patients can return to their full workout routine after about eight weeks. This timeline can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the arm lift surgery.

• Week 8 and Beyond: By the eighth week, many patients are cleared to resume full physical activities, including upper-body exercises. However, it’s important to ease into your routine gradually.
• Start Slowly: Begin with light weights or resistance bands, and avoid pushing yourself too hard. Gradually increase the intensity and weight as your body becomes more accustomed to the exercises.
• Monitor Your Body: Pay close attention to how your arms feel during and after exercise. If you experience discomfort, swelling, or pain, stop the activity and consult your surgeon.

Exercises to Avoid After Arm Lift Surgery

While it’s important to stay active during recovery. There are certain exercises that should be avoided until you are fully healed.

• Heavy Lifting: Lifting heavy weights too soon after arm lift surgery can strain the healing tissues. It can disrupt the results of the surgery. Wait until your surgeon gives you the green light to start heavy lifting.
• Upper-Body Resistance Exercises: Some exercises should be avoided until your arms are completely healed. These include push-ups, pull-ups, and shoulder presses. These movements put direct pressure on the arms.
• High-Impact Cardio: Activities like running or jumping can cause jarring movements. This may affect the healing process. Low-impact cardio is a better option during the recovery phase. Such as walking or stationary cycling,

Conclusion

Resuming exercise after arm lift surgery requires patience and careful planning. Light activity can be introduced after two weeks. But full workouts should not be attempted until eight weeks or more. This also depends on your individual healing progress. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s guidance. Ensure you ease back into your fitness routine gradually and don’t strain your arms.

For more information on arm lifts, please visit the ACIBADEM Beauty Center Arm Lift webpage.