After undergoing any surgical procedure, it’s natural to want to get back to your routine as soon as possible, especially if you're feeling great.
After undergoing any surgical procedure, it’s natural to want to get back to your routine as soon as possible, especially when you’re feeling great. But one of the most significant post-operative risks is infection, and it’s essential to take things slow to protect your body as it heals.
Implant or wound infections can be a serious issue. If oral antibiotics aren’t enough to clear up an infection, it could mean another trip to the operating theatre for a clean-out—and that means starting the healing process all over again. So, when we advise you to take it easy and avoid physical activity after surgery, it’s not to be a killjoy—it’s to help you avoid complications like infections.
You might be wondering, “But I only had surgery on my breasts, so what’s the harm in doing some leg work, like squats, the treadmill, or a long walk?” It’s a fair question.
But here’s the deal: our skin is teeming with trillions of microbes—most of them good, but some not so much. Even though your surgery is performed in a completely sterile environment by our expert surgeon, a single bead of sweat carrying harmful bacteria could make its way into your incision, potentially leading to infection.
Your body’s natural healing process is also something to consider. After surgery, your body sends extra blood to the affected area to deliver oxygen and nutrients that aid in recovery. However, when you engage large muscle groups—like your quads or glutes during exercise—your body redirects that vital blood flow to those muscles. This means less blood flow is available for your surgical site, effectively slowing down the healing process.
Some people may ask, “Is it really that bad to delay healing for a short time just to stay fit?” The answer is, yes—it can be. Here’s why: your body takes around six weeks to form a thin, protective layer of biofilm (or capsule) around your implants. During this time, your implants are more vulnerable to harmful microbes in your body. Once the capsules have fully developed, your implants are more protected—but until then, they’re in a delicate state.
When you exercise, you’re not just redirecting oxygen and nutrients from your surgical site, but also white blood cells—your body’s defence against harmful pathogens. If your white blood cells are busy fighting off a microscopic threat around your implants, and you decide to go for a 5km walk, those immune cells are pulled away to support your muscles instead. In that short time, harmful microbes could have a chance to multiply and cause an infection.
Now, we’re not here to spoil your fun or keep you cooped up inside. Fresh air, sunshine, and a gentle walk can be fantastic for your mental health. But by following our post-operative advice and taking it easy for a little while, you’re giving your body the best chance to heal properly and avoiding complications that could set you back.
Your health and safety are our top priority during your recovery, and we’re here to support you every step of the way!
