Best Answer: It may take minimum 6 weeks to maximum 3 months to heal the sternum.So avoid driving, outdoor bicycling, or motorcycle riding for 6 weeks after surgery. This time period is recommended to allow your breastbone (sternum) to heal. Also your movements might be limited and slow before the 6 weeks are up. When traveling, be sure to get out of the car every 2 hours and walk around for a few minutes. You should not put too much strain on your sternum while it is healing.