Generally speaking, having breast implants won’t stop you from going about your usual activities. You can still keep active, travel, and do the things you love (provided that you wait until you’re fully healed). But it’s important not to rush into anything, listen to your body, and follow the instructions of Dr Rubinstein for your recovery.
If you’re thinking about going on holiday after getting breast implants (augmentation mammoplasty), or getting out and active, there are some important considerations. Let’s discuss the things you should be thinking about before you get on a plane, go diving, or jump into other activities post-surgery.
How soon can I fly after breast augmentation mammoplasty?
This is a common question for breast surgery patients, especially when trying to schedule holiday time around their procedure. You should always rely on the advice of your surgeon, Dr Craig Rubinstein, first and foremost. But generally, it’s recommended that patients wait:
- 2-3 weeks for a short flight, and
- 4-6 weeks for a long flight
Aeroplane cabin pressure does not affect implants, and the risk of implant rupture does not increase when flying. However, bruising and swelling may increase on an aeroplane if you’ve had surgery recently. Other risks of flying after breast augmentation mammoplasty include:
- Swelling and tightness
- Discomfort due to sitting for a long period
- Increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (blood clots)
Just because implants themselves aren’t affected by being in an aeroplane doesn’t mean you should jump on a plane without being careful of the possible side effects. You should always consult with your surgeon before flying to discuss and ensure you are aware of the risks. Make sure you wear a compression garment, stay hydrated, and try to get up regularly to keep your blood circulating.
What about driving a car?
Right after surgery, you won’t be able to drive. It’s important to give your body enough healing time before getting back behind the wheel, because you don’t want to aggravate your surgical wounds. Lifting up your arms and using them to drive can have a negative impact on your surgical results and amplify the risk of complications.
It’s recommended that patients wait at least two weeks before driving a car after breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery.
Tips for travelling
If you’ve planned to take a trip shortly after your breast surgery, you should take the necessary steps to prepare. Make sure you check with your surgeon about flying in an aeroplane, and discuss the details of your trip. And ensure that your travel plans don’t interfere with any follow-up appointments that are necessary to monitor the progress of your healing.
Before travelling, it’s a good idea to keep the following in mind:
- Avoid lifting anything heavy, including luggage
- Confirm with your surgeon that you are fit to travel
- Bring surgical dressings and support bras
- If on an aeroplane, opt for an aisle seat for easy access to move around
- Pack any necessary pain relief or medications
- Make sure you have access to water for hydration
Swimming after breast augmentation mammoplasty
When can you swim after breast surgery?
It depends on the specific advice of Dr Rubinstein, but generally, you may need to wait two weeks before getting back in the water. The wound should be dry before you go for a swim, and you should keep your swims fairly short to reduce risks, such as straining the breast area, slowing wound healing, and infection. Never go swimming if your wound is still open, and make sure you get professional advice if you are unsure.
When can I go scuba diving after surgery?
Many women who get breast augmentation mammoplasty may wonder how to balance their outdoor activities with their cosmetic goals. Before you go scuba diving, it’s important to understand the safety and health considerations so you can avoid increasing risks post-operatively.
For the initial weeks after breast augmentation mammoplasty, you will need to avoid all activities that may aggravate the surgical wounds, put pressure on the implants, or strain the chest muscles. This includes scuba diving.
After the initial phase of recovery, diving with breast implants (either silicone or saline) is considered acceptable, provided that you follow all appropriate health and safety protocols. For example, it’s important to be aware of the depth limitations when you have implants. Typically, divers with breast implants should not exceed a depth of about 40 metres, or else this could increase the risk of implant rupture. Divers should also consider how their implants may affect the practical considerations of their diving, such as buoyancy.
Before you resume scuba diving after breast surgery, ensure that you:
- Consult with both your surgeon and diving professionals
- Prioritise safety by using the correct equipment
- Complete a medical evaluation to ensure you are fit for diving
- Resume your diving activity gradually to help adjust to changes from your surgery
- Be attentive to any signs of discomfort or complications
Choosing Dr Rubinstein for breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery in Melbourne
Returning to your activities after breast augmentation mammoplasty isn’t something you should rush into. Whether it’s aeroplane travel, scuba diving, or other activities, make sure you treat your incision sites with care and avoid putting a strain on your body prematurely. Take it slow, listen to your body, and when in doubt, consult Dr Rubinstein for more guidance. He will be able to assess your particular circumstances to determine when you are fit to resume your activities.
For more information, visit our breast augmentation mammoplasty page or seek out a private consultation with Dr Rubinstein.