It's Topic Tuesday!

Purab Kothari
Aug 12
2 min read

Welcome back to another Topic Tuesday, friends. Let's talk about lifting after aortic surgery.

"Can I lift weights again?"

The truth is, there isn’t one universal rule for everyone. Different doctors and rehabilitation programs may give different advice—because the research on weightlifting after aortic surgery is limited, and every patient’s situation is unique.

When you lift something heavy—whether it’s a dumbbell, a grocery bag, or even your grandchild—your blood pressure temporarily spikes. This is especially true if you hold your breath or strain while lifting (a movement called the Valsalva maneuver).

For someone with a history of aortic aneurysm, dissection, or surgical repair, these sudden spikes in blood pressure put extra stress on the aortic wall and on surgical repairs or grafts. Over time, repeated straining could potentially increase the risk of:

Aneurysm growth in untreated portions of the aorta
Tear or rupture of weakened segments
Blood pressure–related complications in the heart and vessels

Some doctors take a very cautious approach and recommend avoiding weightlifting altogether, especially heavy or overhead lifting. Others allow light strength training if it’s done slowly, with controlled breathing, and without pushing to the point of strain.

The differences in recommendations happen because:

There are no large studies that clearly define a “safe” lifting weight after aortic surgery.
The aorta can vary in size, location of repair, and surgical technique between patients.
People heal differently, and their other medical conditions (like high blood pressure or heart disease) matter.

This is why your specific case—including your surgical history, imaging results, and blood pressure control—should guide your plan.

Even though opinions vary, there are some common safety guidelines that most physicians and cardiac rehabilitation specialists recommend:

Always check with your doctor before starting or changing a routine.They know your surgical history, follow-up imaging, and blood pressure goals.
Avoid straining or holding your breath.Breathe out during the hardest part of the lift, and breathe in during the easier part.
Favor lighter weights with more repetitions.Many patients are advised to lift weights that feel “easy to moderate,” not “max effort.”
Keep movements slow and controlled.Jerking or explosive lifts cause more sudden pressure changes.
Stop immediately if you feel pain, dizziness, or chest discomfort.
Avoid competitive or high-intensity lifting.This includes heavy bench pressing, powerlifting, or Olympic-style lifts.

Often Allowed (with clearance):

Resistance bands
Light dumbbell or kettlebell exercises
Bodyweight exercises like wall push-ups or sit-to-stand from a chair
Functional lifting (like carrying light groceries)

Often Discouraged:

Heavy barbell squats, deadlifts, or bench presses
High-intensity “max lift” competitions
Exercises that require holding your breath during exertion

The Bottom Line

After aortic surgery, your goal with strength training is not to push limits—it’s to maintain function, stability, and quality of life without putting unnecessary stress on your aorta.

Thank's for tuning in for another Topic Tuesday!

-Purab