Can working out cause fluid build up 4 weeks post op ???

[GymAddict]

Title pretty much says it all,

I had 4 weeks rest post op and had first workout, everything was fine but the day after both my chest was swelled up, left abit more than right ...

Cheers

[M31]

no idea but have you tried aerobic excersize like running or any intesity movement? cause since i won't be able to lift i want to at least stay active

[Dr. Elliot Jacobs]

Anything is possible.  But for most guys, working out after surgery should start gradually -- ie don't go all out the first day back at the gym.  Usually, if there is swelling after a workout, it is just that -- usually not fluid accumulation.

I tell my patients to expect a bit of swelling and to place their compression garment on rather snugly after the workout -- preferably for overnight.

Dr Jacobs

[805spec]

I had the same experience even two months after the surgery.  My chest would swell up after a workout and it wasn't "muscle swell".  After the first couple of times I attributed it to the chest workouts.  So...ultimately Dr. Jacobs got it right on the dot.  After my workouts I would put my compression shirt on and it solved the problem.  I usually workout in the evening so I would wear it overnight and take it off during the day.