Exercise Routines Before and After Surgery

We know that fitter, healthier people recover faster from surgery than people who have neglected themselves over the years. However, it’s not too late to start exercising in preparation for your surgery.

I recommend that patients begin their exercise regiment at least six weeks prior to undergoing a procedure. If you are new to exercising, it is important that you start slow, but if you already are a fitness buff, consider intensifying your workout, increasing the duration of your workout or working out more frequently leading up to surgery.

Aerobic exercise strengthens your heart and increases your body’s ability to use oxygen, which will help your body best handle undergoing a procedure. I also recommend yoga, which can help prepare you with mind and body relaxation techniques and soothing movements, which will be beneficial after surgery.

Many patients will ask me how quickly they can go back to their exercise routines after surgery. Many people can begin slowly working back into their routines about two weeks after facial surgery and four weeks after body work. Most can resume their active, pre-surgery routine within about 4-6 months.

Above all, do not begin your workout routine without discussing it during the follow up appointment. I always make sure clients understand that it is important for me to evaluate how they are healing before they are cleared to resume exercise activities.