Weight Loss After Breast Reduction
Large breasts add extra weight to the chest and negatively affect posture, causing back pain, overstretched trapezius muscles in the upper back and neck pain. Being out of proportion can affect a woman's emotional well-being and can limit the intensity, duration and frequency of aerobic exercise. After a successful breast reduction surgery and recovery, physical activity can resume without the occurrence of pain experienced during past workouts.
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Short-term Effects
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In routine breast reduction cases, the first six weeks after the surgery are imperative in order to ensure successful healing of the incisions, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Moderate to heavy lifting is restricted and the patient is advised to limit most physical activity. The first two weeks is likely to present challenges in everyday movements such as reaching up to the cabinet for a dinner plate or taking a shower.
Restarting Exercise
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Even if physical activity was part of your everyday life prior to the surgery, the same movements post-operative might not feel quite the same because the absence of the extra tissue and fat shocks the body into readjusting its posture to compensate for the lighter chest. Restarting an exercise program should be done slowly. Try some light stretching and yoga to reconnect with the body and build confidence. These light exercises introduce movement, improve breathing and work at relaxing the muscles that have been strained from years of carrying excess weight.
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Step It Up
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Regular aerobic activity burns calories, so selecting a fitness program that increases and maintains the target heart rate promotes weight loss. Try an elliptical machine or a stationary bike to increase the heart rate without extra bouncing, which may still feel uncomfortable. Despite the discomfort, many women find exercise to be easier after breast reduction surgery is done because they no longer carry extra weight or face the potential emotional trauma of working out intensively.
Cross-Training
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The key to remaining interested in exercise and maintaining a healthy weight loss consists of variety. For example, attempt to mix time on an elliptical exercise machine with weight training. This method works against the 'plateau' effect--weight loss and body toning typically taper off at some point in most exercise programs unless your routine changes. This also helps prevent overuse injuries.
Emotional Health
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Surgery is more than just an intervention for physical pain, but can also assist in repairing the emotional state. Oftentimes drastic measures are taken to hide large breasts, enhancing poor posture and poor self-esteem. When the extra weight is removed posture improves, pain subsides and self-confidence generally improves. This boost in self-confidence can help change past behaviors, including food intake. Feeling good means filling up with wholesome, healthy foods and being attentive to portion sizes.
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