Exercise and Swelling

I'm six weeks out and have been cleared for gradual exercise. Dr. warns that I may experience some swelling as a result. Anyone returned to exercising yet? What's been your experience?

I was back cycling at 31 days out of LBL, but I had been very active until the day before surgery with cycling, weights, etc.  It didn't really affect the swelling, but I was cautious to do baby steps as far as amount of time, etc.  Right now I'm at 50% of my normal workout and add a little bit more each time.  We also unfortunately were part of the heatwave and therefore I did not exercise if the humidity or heat were high.

Good luck!
Gracie150

I have been walking on the TM since 3 days after my brachio. I make sure I'm in my compression garments. I have not experienced any abnormal swelling.

Thanks for your reply Lazz22girl . I'm wearing my compression garments as well. Are you using weights as well?

Thanks for the reply Gracie. Today was my first day in the gym since surgery. I did a moderate 30 minute walk on the treadmill. Felt some tighting  at the end of my workout. I'm taking the "baby steps" approach as well. Good luck to you.

No weights! I believe my surgeon said no weights for 6-12 weeks. I have to clear that one up when I see him this week.

I also try to not move my arms much. I just started running intervals this week and I make sure to limit my arm movement. Don't want a lot of pulling on the scars.

I just make sure my compressions are on the whole time.

Oh and like you, I started with just walking...I also noticed I felt achy towards the end of 20 mins. I mainly started so early out because i deal with constipation and the colace wasn't helping...so the walk help get things moving. I walked for several weeks with no problems. I was gradually able to increase the speed/incline/length of time as time went on. I don't plan to be back to my full workout until the week after next.

I did just have a brachio, so that may effect how your experience will be if you had a lbl or other invasion procedures.

Thanks for your reply. I didn't get any specific instructions as to what was off limits in terms of exercise. I had a breast lift/augmentation and a tummy tuck. I was told to listen to my body. I'm holding off on the weights as well. I tried overhead stretching and felt a little tugging. I don't want to cause complications so I'll wait a couple of weeks before trying them out.

I jumped right back into running at 6 weeks out - did my usual 5K on my first run after my TT.  That was probably not that smart ;0)

I found my tummy muscles were SORE after that run - numb, tingly, itchy....but I don't think I HURT anything long term.  My dr. had cleared me for full exercise.

I'd recommend just starting really slowly - kind of like you did when you started exercise when losing weight.  Intervals.  Small weights.  But you will probably be able to work your way up to your pre-surgery routine a lot more quickly.

Thanks Erica. I'll try not to over do things.