How Should I Sleep After Breast Augmentation Surgery?
9/22/2023
Knowing what to expect after breast augmentation surgery and planning ahead for your recovery are essential for encouraging a smooth healing process and optimal results. One of the most common questions patients ask about breast augmentation recovery is how they should sleep. At Mays Plastic Surgery & Med Spa, Louisville, KY, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Chet Mays and our knowledgeable team are committed to educating patients on best practices for breast augmentation recovery to ensure the most comfortable experience and successful outcome possible. Keep reading to learn more about sleeping after breast augmentation and answers to many other breast augmentation recovery FAQ.
How is breast augmentation performed?
To better understand how and why it may be necessary to adjust your sleeping position after breast augmentation, it is helpful to know how the procedure itself is performed. While each breast augmentation is customized based on the patient’s specific goals, anatomy, and other factors, the procedure generally involves placing synthetic implants into the breast pocket via an incision. There are a number of aspects of breast augmentation that will vary from case to case, and Dr. Mays will help patients understand which choices are most appropriate for them. These may include:
- Type of breast implant
- Breast implant size
- Implant vs. fat transfer to the breast
- Implant shape
- Implant profile
- Type of incision
- Incision placement
- Implant placement
- Whether to include a breast lift
How will I feel after breast augmentation surgery?
For the first several days after breast augmentation surgery, patients should expect some soreness or discomfort, bruising, and swelling. These symptoms should begin to resolve over the next 2 – 3 weeks, though residual swelling, firmness of the breasts, and other symptoms can last for several more weeks or months. Most patients can resume light desk work and light household chores after about 1 – 2 weeks, but lifting, straining, physical activity, and other routines may be off-limits for up to 6 – 8 weeks or until cleared by Dr. Mays.
What’s the best way to sleep after breast augmentation surgery?
Patients should plan to sleep on their back with their upper body slightly elevated during breast augmentation recovery. This helps to minimize swelling and also protects the healing tissues and incisions from undue pressure. Propping up with pillows or using an adjustable mattress are both common ways to elevate the upper body. Many women choose to sleep in a recliner to avoid inadvertently rolling to their side or stomach. Using additional pillows or rolled-up towels can also help to keep patients in the appropriate sleeping position.
When can I sleep on my stomach with breast implants?
Generally speaking, it is usually okay to begin sleeping in your preferred position once you feel comfortable doing so. Still, it is best to wait until your surgeon has cleared you and deemed it safe to resume any new physical activities or behaviors, including sleeping on your stomach. During your follow-up appointments, Dr. Mays will closely monitor your healing progress and let you know when it is safe and appropriate to exercise, sleep on your stomach, and engage in other activities.
Send your confidence soaring with breast augmentation surgery in Louisville, KY
If you have always felt self-conscious about your naturally small breasts or have experienced changes in your breasts over time due to age, breastfeeding, or another life event, breast augmentation surgery may be the confidence-boosting solution you’ve been searching for. Discover the stunning transformations that are possible with breast augmentation surgery by calling Mays Plastic Surgery & Med Spa to schedule your private consultation with top Louisville, KY, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Chet Mays today.