Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures for women along with liposuction. It often improves the way they look and feel about themselves. The recovery process can take several weeks and be quite challenging, especially during the early days. The doctor will recommend that you get plenty of rest during your recovery to help your body heal faster.
One of the challenges of having a breast augmentation is how you’re going to get any sleep. It can be difficult to find a comfortable position that doesn’t hurt your breasts as they heal. Sleep is an important part of recovery, and it’s important that you learn how to sleep after breast augmentation surgery.
Dr. Leo Lapuerta is experienced in providing breast surgeries and BBL in Houston, with positive results for augmentation and breast implant exchange in patients of various ages and shapes. He has guided many patients through a comfortable healing process.
What to Expect with Recovery
You will probably have an overnight stay in the hospital after the surgery. Once you are sent home, you will be expected to rest for several days. You will have swelling, bruising, and soreness. The bandages will need to be changed and you may have a drain tube to remove excess liquid. You will wear a compression garment for several weeks after the surgery to help promote healing. As the swelling goes down, you will begin to feel more normal and able to resume some of your normal activities.
The Importance of Sleep During Breast Augmentation Recovery
Sleep is essential to your recovery from breast augmentation. You will likely feel tired and low on energy from having major surgery. Sleep allows your body’s immune system to kick in and help with healing while fighting off infection.
While you’re sleeping is when the body gets to work on the healing process. The brain triggers hormones to promote the regrowth of tissue while repairing blood vessels during your sleep. Your body releases hormones to help muscles relax to reduce soreness.
How to Sleep After Breast Augmentation Surgery
To ensure a better night’s sleep after the surgery, you should plan ahead of time. Begin adjusting to a new sleeping position if you like to sleep on your side or stomach. If you can get used to sleeping on your back before surgery, it will likely be less difficult afterward. Use extra pillows under your arms to provide support, which can help improve the quality of sleep on your back.
You will need to start sleeping after breast augmentation surgery on your back for up to six weeks. You shouldn’t lie flat on your back but at a 30 to 45-degree angle. This position helps reduce swelling and allows the blood to flow away from your breasts to alleviate pain.
When you are once again allowed to sleep on your side during the healing process, you will want to place soft pillows under the breasts. This helps prevent excess pressure on the breasts and keeps the implants in place without pulling at the incisions.
Tips to Sleep Well After Breast Augmentation
Transitioning to a new sleeping position can seem difficult. Here are some tips to help you sleep better in any position after your breast augmentation surgery.
- Invest in some supportive pillows for your arms and back to ensure you are sleeping in a comfortable position that minimizes pain.
- Get up and move around during the day, within reason. The surgeon will recommend that you start walking right away to boost circulation. Just be careful not to overdo it.
- Wear a support bra even at night. The bra will hold your breasts in place and help reduce the pressure on your incisions. Bras with extra support can help reduce swelling as well.
- Take a warm shower. Even though you won’t be allowed to take a bath for the first few weeks after surgery, the warm water from a shower can be relaxing and soothing. Just make sure you ask the doctor how long it will be before you can shower after surgery.
- Leave out caffeine. Don’t drink caffeinated beverages in the evening, which can keep you awake. Exchange them for chamomile tea or another beverage that has no caffeine to help you relax.
- Take pain medication. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication after surgery, so make sure you take it as directed. Once you can get relief from the discomfort, you’ll find it easier to go to sleep.
FAQs
When Can I Sleep on My Side After Breast Augmentation?
You will need to sleep in a reclined position on your back for about six weeks after surgery. Sometimes, you may be allowed to sleep on your side after two weeks of recovery but ask your doctor first. You won’t be allowed to sleep on your stomach for at least 12 weeks after surgery.
Can I Sleep Without a Bra After Surgery?
It’s recommended to wear a support bra even at night for six to eight weeks for sleeping after breast implants.
How Can I Maintain My Results?
To ensure you get the best results from a breast augmentation, make sure you follow the doctor’s instructions for care during recovery. Wear bras that provide support even after recovery and maintain a healthy weight to ensure your new breasts continue to look amazing.
Is the Surgery Worth It?
Research has shown that a breast augmentation has a positive impact on the self-esteem of the woman. They also have an improved body image with their new shape.
Contact us Today
If you are considering a breast augmentation, you should make sure you choose an experienced surgeon. Dr. Leo Lapuerta has more than two decades of experience and has performed thousands of breast surgeries. Many of them are combination surgeries, such as breast augmentation with lift. As a triple-board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Lapuerta stays up to date on the latest procedures and research to ensure optimal results for every patient who is considering breast augmentation in Houston, TX. He will answer your questions about the surgery and recovery, including how to sleep after breast augmentation surgery. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about this procedure.