Fit or Fiction: Do Breast Implants Trump Chest Exercises?

Now that I have breast implants can I finally stop exercising my chest muscles with weights and push ups? -- Anonymous, New Rochelle Park, N.J.

Most doctors will recommend waiting at least eight weeks after an implant procedure before heading back to the weight room -- or before lifting anything heavy for that matter. But I sense that your question is more about wanting to give up weight training rather than starting it up again. It's tempting to think that the boob job gives you a free pass on the gym. Alas, no.

Women who have had breast augmentation should, of course, always check in with their doctor first about the types of physical activity they can and cannot do. I feel pretty confident that in most cases, a doctor will tell you that weight lifting will only enhance your surgery results and in all likelihood, extend the life expectancy of the procedure.

Implants are either placed on top or underneath the chest muscles, a.k.a. the pectorals. Which procedure you have will depend upon, among other things, the size of the implant, your age, your activity level and how lean you are. Regardless of the implant type, the "pecs" bear the responsibility for holding them in place. Maintaining those muscles so they aren't weak and saggy underneath will keep your breast implants looking youthful and lifted for longer. In essence, a regular weight training routine, protects your investment.

The only exception to this is if you are into seriously hardcore body building because then your cups may runneth over -- literally. Going overboard with the iron increases the odds of implant displacement, an implant blow out, or pumping up the muscles so high that they turn your implants into chin rests. (I've seen this and trust me, it looks odd.) Dropping a weight on your chest or any sudden, jerky movement while holding onto a weight can also result in an implant blow out; that's why good lifting technique is more important than ever after surgery.

Whether natural or man-made, all breasts perk up when the underlying supporting muscles are in shape. For those of us who just go natural but still want to look firm and youthful, weight training is a pretty effective alternative to the knife. I recommend adding two to six sets of push-ups and presses (in any combination) at least twice a week into your full body weight training routine. These are only two very basic chest exercises. There are many more that work just as well.

Any other thoughts on implants and weight lifting to share? Anyone ever have a blow out? Always wondered what that would feel like. Please tweet me Lizzyfit@twitter.com or post a comment here.

For more info on beautifying your breasts, check out three steps to your best breasts.