What is the Best Sleeping Position After Breast Augmentation?
Posted on May 12, 2022
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgeries performed. Various techniques can ensure the best possible recovery and patient satisfaction.
Why Sleep Is Necessary After Breast Augmentation
Sleep is necessary for the body and mind to function productively and normally. Lack of sleep can lead to headaches, fatigue, irritability, anxiety, depression, and other health-related issues. Sleep can also affect the recovery process by making the plastic surgery recovery time longer. A lack of sleep can lead to negatively high cortisol levels, which in turn causes the body to be more stressed.
It is dangerous because these high levels of cortisol can cause the body to heal slower or, at the absolute minimum, stop the healing process entirely. Patients who smoke testify that smoking is beneficial to a certain extent, as it restores their sleep. It is essential not to fall asleep on one’s back after breast augmentation surgery in preparation for sleeping positions.
What is the Best Sleeping Position After Breast Augmentation?
1. Supine position
The supine position is the traditional sleeping position for your first six weeks. It helps prevent the swelling and bruising of your new breasts, keep them elevated, and promote better scar healing. Another bonus is that it helps to relax the muscles that can tense up around the implants.
Using a well-padded pillow to ensure your head is off the bed slightly reduces strain on your neck and shoulders, preventing any undue stress on your new breasts.
2. Lateral recumbent position
Leaning over in an arc from your back will also help to prevent damage to the implants or skin. Another way to achieve this position is by placing a pillow between your arm and the side of your body. It will alleviate your back and shoulders and reduce strain on the arms.
3. Upright sleeping position
It is best achieved by leaning against a wall or headboard. It also reduces stress on your back and shoulders, neck, and arms. A pillow placed between your knees will help relieve strain and provide better support for the implants in this position.
4. Sitting position
It is essential to know that there will be some limitations on the physical activities you can perform in the first few weeks. However, sitting up with your back supported is often encouraged after your first week postoperatively. It helps to reduce strain and prevent undue tension around your implants.
5. Prone position
The prone position is not advised during the first week after surgery. It is only possible with implants longer in the front and shorter in the back, as gravity will pull them backward.
These positions are acceptable after your first week postoperatively, once your surgeon has permitted you to do so. It is essential to follow up with your surgeon regarding specific instructions regarding sleeping positions and other physical limitations postoperatively.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are interested in breast augmentation, schedule a consultation with Dr. Falcon. The team at Falcon Plastic surgery is highly qualified and skilled in their field, meaning that you can be confident in the surgical techniques and care. Call (724) 226-3900 or contact us online to set up your first appointment.
Who are we?
Falcon Plastic Surgery, located in Monroeville and Natrona Heights, PA, provides facial, breast, and body contouring through plastic surgery and med spa treatments. Dr. Christopher Falcon, owner of Falcon Plastic Surgery, purchased the practice from his father in 2017. Dr. Falcon has been a practicing surgeon for 15 years.
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For more information on our natural approach to plastic surgery, please fill out the contact form or call our office.