Answers
"I had breast augmentation 6 days ago with the implants being placed under the muscle. I was told to not lift anything over 5 pounds or raise my arms, etc. I have tried to follow the doctor’s orders, but I have two small children and have had to lift the youngest a couple of times and reach or raise my arms probably more than my surgeon would prefer. What could the complications be and do I risk “undoing” the surgery?"
— Answered by
Deason C. Dunagan, MD
Huntsville, AL
The major concern with over exertion post-op breast augmentation would be development of a hematoma that would necessitate a return to surgery to evacuate. Hematomas are quite painful. Over use of the arms such as putting arms over the head, and lifting more than 5 pounds are examples of overexertion. It is very important to follow your surgeon's advice for the best post- operative recuperation and the best final outcome from surgery.
