Hormone pellet insertion is a form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that delivers a steady, low-dose release of hormones over several months. A small pellet, typically containing bioidentical testosterone or estrogen, is placed beneath the skin in the fatty tissue of the hip or upper buttocks area. Because this method requires a small incision and the placement of a solid object under the skin, temporary post-procedure care is necessary to ensure proper healing and the best results. Following your provider’s specific instructions is important for the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.
Immediate Activity Restrictions
Immediately following the pellet insertion, a strict period of rest is required for the first 48 to 72 hours. During this initial time, vigorous physical activity is prohibited. This includes high-impact exercises like running, jogging, or intense aerobics, as well as any activity that causes repetitive motion or significant jarring of the insertion site.
Avoid heavy lifting and exercises that directly engage the gluteal muscles. Light, non-jarring activities such as walking on a flat surface or performing desk work are usually permitted. The primary goal of these initial restrictions is to prevent disturbance to the newly placed pellet and the small incision.
The Importance of Wound Stabilization
Temporary restrictions are necessary for wound stabilization and pellet adherence. A small incision is made to insert the pellet into the subcutaneous fat layer, and this opening requires time to fully seal and close. Any premature or excessive movement can disrupt tissue repair, which can lead to complications.
Strenuous activity, especially running, creates repetitive impact and friction that can apply pressure to the insertion site and the underlying pellet. This mechanical stress increases the risk of pellet displacement, where the pellet shifts from its intended location. Excessive friction can lead to pellet extrusion, where the pellet migrates toward the surface and pushes out of the incision before it has fully healed. Avoiding intense activity helps minimize bruising and swelling, allowing the surrounding tissue to encapsulate and stabilize the hormone pellet beneath the skin.
Timeline for Resuming Strenuous Activity
After the initial 48 to 72-hour period, patients can begin returning to activity, but high-impact activities require more time. Light exercise, such as gentle stretching or brisk walking, is typically safe to resume on Day 3 or Day 4 post-procedure. You should still avoid movements that directly strain the hip or gluteal area where the pellet was placed.
High-impact exercise, including running, heavy weightlifting, and lower-body resistance training, should generally be avoided for a full seven to fourteen days. The timeframe depends on individual healing rates and your medical professional’s specific instructions. Wait until any tenderness or soreness at the insertion site has completely subsided before attempting a full run.
Water Immersion Restrictions
Activities that involve soaking the area, such as baths, hot tubs, or swimming, must be postponed for at least five to seven days. This prevents waterborne bacteria from causing an infection.
Post-Procedure Care and Monitoring
Proper care of the insertion site is important during the recovery process. The site is typically covered with an outer pressure dressing and inner skin tapes, which should remain in place to protect the incision. While the outer dressing can be removed after 24 hours, the inner strips should remain on for five to seven days to support the healing wound.
Showering is usually permitted the day after the procedure, but avoid scrubbing the insertion site until the skin is fully healed. Mild discomfort, soreness, or bruising at the site is normal and can be managed with an ice pack or over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen. Contact your provider immediately if you observe signs of complication, such as excessive redness, warmth, increasing pain, a yellowish discharge, or fever, which could indicate an infection.