Few things are as important as good rest when it comes to recovering from breast augmentation. Women who visit my Schererville office from Munster, Merrillville, and across Indiana often worry about how they’ll get the sleep they need in the first day or 2 after surgery, especially if they are used to sleeping on their stomachs.
Fortunately, there are a few ways to make sure you comfortably get plenty of rest after getting breast implants so you can heal as quickly and beautifully as possible. Read on to learn more about my plastic surgeon-approved tips for sleeping soundly after breast surgery.
Start by Sleeping in a Recliner
Sleeping with your upper body elevated will keep breast swelling and fluid buildup to a minimum during the first couple of days, which makes a big difference in your recovery. If you don’t have a recliner, try propping up your upper body on a few pillows.
During your first couple of nights at home, it’s normal to feel some tightness or soreness in your breasts. Oral pain medication should relieve this so you can comfortably get plenty of rest right away.
Then Sleep Flat on Your Back
Sleeping on your back eliminates your risk of putting pressure on your chest that may be uncomfortable or compromise your results. Many women find it helpful to place pillows under each arm to prevent them from rolling onto their side or stomach.
If you’re a side or stomach sleeper and are nervous about sleeping comfortably on your back, try it for a few nights before your surgery. This practice will help you get familiar with the position and find what works best for you.
Wear Supportive Garments While You Sleep
After your surgery, you’ll need to wear post-op garments around the clock. These support garments are designed to protect your treated areas, keep everything in place, and minimize swelling by compressing the area.
Your surgeon will provide guidance on how long you’ll need to sleep in these garments and what you should look for when shopping for your own. Learn more about post-op compression garments in this previous blog post.
Don’t Self-Sabotage Your Sleep
It’s normal to feel a bit fatigued for a few days after breast augmentation, and there’s often a temptation to boost your energy levels with caffeine or sugar. However, these substances, along with alcohol and too much screen time, can keep you awake and make it difficult for you to get the rest you need.
Instead, focus on eating nutrient-rich foods, drinking plenty of water, and managing stress by journaling or connecting with loved ones.
Be Lightly Active While You’re Awake
Short walks throughout the day are great for improving your circulation and expending a little bit of energy so you can rest deeply at night.
However, it’s very important to listen to your body and avoid overexerting yourself as you gradually become more active. Do not lift anything heavy or exercise intensely for the first 2 to 3 weeks. Stick to light walks and slowly build up to more intense exercise with your surgeon’s clearance.
To see examples of the results you can expect once you have healed after breast augmentation, please visit our before-and-after photo gallery.
If you would like to learn more about breast augmentation recovery from an experienced plastic surgeon, please get in touch with my Schererville and Valparaiso, IN, offices. Contact us online or call (219) 322-3131 (Schererville) or (219) 299-9300 (Valparaiso).
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