Will Breast Implants Affect Physical Activities?

There are many considerations to go over with your surgeon when you are discussing whether breast implants are right for you. At the Gillian Institute in Indianapolis, IN, we discuss with you how this procedure will fit into your existing lifestyle. Many of our active patients want to know if breast augmentation will affect physical activities from weight training to running. 

Learning more about how breast implants will impact your movement, comfort, and activity levels both during the initial recovery period and in the weeks, months, and years after surgery can help you decide if this surgery is right for you. We will be with you throughout the whole process to offer advice and provide you with the information you need to make the best decision.

Breast Implants and Body Movement

The way your breast implants interact with your body and your activities will depend on the type of implants you choose and the placement of your breast implants. Larger breast implants will typically affect motion more than smaller breast implants, and materials such as silicone and saline implants can impact this as well. Generally speaking, however, implants will not prevent you from maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle once healing is complete.  

Placement of Breast Implants

Where the implants sit in relation to the chest muscle influences movement, comfort, and overall feel during exercise. The two options for placement are: 

• Submuscular Implants: Submuscular placement positions the implant beneath the pectoral muscle. This placement reduces the likelihood of rippling and creates a more natural-looking slope. Because the implant is beneath an active muscle, recovery from this surgery is a little longer, and it will be more time before you can return to your regular exercises. There may be some risk of implant movement for patients who engage in more strenuous activities that use the chest muscles. 
• Subglandular Implants: Subglandular implants are placed over the chest muscle but beneath the breast tissue. This type of breast implant surgery can sometimes be more suitable for active individuals because of the shorter recovery and the reduced risk of implant movement. However, there may be more of a likelihood of visible rippling, especially in patients with less breast tissue. 

A Timeline for Exercising After Breast Implant Surgery

In the first few days after breast enhancement, rest is the priority, and any movement should be limited to light walking to promote circulation. For the first two to four weeks, avoid lifting anything heavy, including weights or even grocery bags, to prevent strain on the chest muscles. High-impact activities like running, jumping, or strength training should be avoided for at least six weeks to allow the implants to settle and the surrounding tissue to heal.

Once breast implant recovery is complete, you’ll likely notice some differences when exercising. Chest movements may feel tighter at first, especially if your implants are placed beneath the muscle, but this typically improves over time as the body adjusts. If you do weight training, you may need to modify certain chest exercises to reduce strain on the implants. High-impact activities like running may feel different depending on implant size and placement, so a supportive sports bra is essential for comfort.

Cardiovascular Workouts After Breast Implants

Once your body has fully healed from the breast implant procedure, activities like running, cycling, and high-intensity interval training can be resumed with the right support. Implant size and placement can influence how movement feels during high-impact activities, so a well-fitted sports bra will minimize movement and discomfort. Some patients find that larger implants create more bounce during running or jumping exercises, while others adjust quickly and notice little difference. Low-impact cardio, such as walking or using an elliptical machine, typically feels more comfortable earlier in the recovery process.

Swim and Water Activities After Implants

Swimming and water-based exercises are generally safe once healing is complete, but implants can slightly affect how the chest moves through the water. Submuscular implants may feel tighter at first, but this usually improves as the body adapts. Buoyancy in water can also change how implants sit on the body, especially for those with larger implants. While most patients find that swimming remains a comfortable and effective workout, some may need to adjust stroke mechanics or use different swimwear for better support.

The Impact of Implants on Posture and Core Strength

Breast implants can subtly influence posture, especially in the first few months as the body adjusts to added volume in the chest. Larger implants may slightly shift weight distribution forward, requiring more core engagement to maintain proper alignment. Strengthening the back and core muscles can help prevent discomfort and support long-term posture stability. For those who practice yoga or Pilates, some movements may feel different at first, but modifications can be made as needed to maintain form and balance.

Schedule Your Consultation Today and Stay Active With Confidence

Choosing the right type of breast implant and placement can make a difference in how your body moves and adapts to physical activity. However, if you are an active individual, you can continue to enjoy both an active lifestyle and augmented breasts with the right implants. At Gillian Institute, we discuss your lifestyle, workout routine, and aesthetic goals to help you make an informed decision. Call (317) 787-3260 or contact us to schedule your consultation in Indianapolis, IN, or fill out our online form to get started.