When Is It Safe to Exercise After Liposuction?
Considered to be the gold standard in fat removal, liposuction is a popular choice for patients who wish to remove stubborn fat deposits on parts of the body such as the abdomen, flanks, arms, buttocks and thighs. The results from liposuction can be life-changing as patients experience a boost in self-confidence thanks to their sexier physique. Some patients are inspired to exercise more often in order to maintain their slimmer shape, while those who were already active prior to surgery are eager to resume exercise. Because the topic of exercising after liposuction is a popular one, Portland plastic surgeon Dr. Ronald DeMars thought it would be wise to discuss the general guidelines and timeline for exercising after surgery in this blog post.
First Two Weeks after Surgery: Rest Is Key
Immediately following your procedure, Dr. DeMars will order you to return home so you can rest and relax for the remainder of the day. Other than getting up to use the restroom or walk around the house, you will need to get plenty of rest for at least the first two weeks after surgery. Straining your body or elevating your heart rate during the initial recovery period can lead to serious complications that can alter your results and affect your healing progress.
Two to Three Weeks after Surgery: Taking Short Walks
During the two to three week mark, Dr. DeMars should clear you to take longer walks. These walks are important because they help with blood flow and circulation, which are important for proper healing. Try building up your endurance by adding time and distance with each walk. During this time period, you may still find it difficult to walk at your normal pace. This is okay. It’s better to listen to your body and take it easy than to push it too hard and hurt yourself.
Three to Six Weeks after Surgery: Exercising at a Modified Pace
Dr. DeMars may clear you to resume your normal exercise routine during the three to six-week mark. However, he will recommend that you exercise at a modified pace. Dr. DeMars can make specific recommendations on what exercises you can do and for how long upon evaluating your healing progress.
Six to Eight Weeks after Surgery: Resuming Normal Exercise
Most patients are cleared to resume exercising at their normal activity level at the six to eight week mark after surgery. However, everyone heals at a different pace. Should you feel any pain or discomfort when you exercise, slow down and contact Dr. DeMars.
To learn more about liposuction, please schedule a consultation with Dr. DeMars by calling (503) 253-3458.
