Best Sleep Positions after Plastic Surgery

Submitted by Dr. Joyesh Raj on Wed 06/26/2019 - 09:00

A lot of your plastic surgery recovery will be spent resting and napping, and it’s important to understand that you might need to modify your normal sleep position after your surgery. Sleeping in the right position ensures your body heals optimally and you achieve the best possible result from your surgery. It can also prevent discomfort and other complications.

Take a moment to learn about the best sleep positions after plastic surgery, as outlined by Dr. Joyesh Raj.

Sleep Positions after Breast Surgery

If you undergo a breast procedure, you must avoid sleeping on your side or stomach for a few weeks after your surgery. Sleeping on your side or stomach puts too much pressure and strain on your incisions, and can possibly lead to bleeding or stretching the scar. If you had breast augmentation, sleeping on your side or stomach may force the implants into an abnormal shape or position and jeopardize your ultimate results.

The best position to sleep in after surgery is on your back. If you aren’t used to sleeping on your back, practice a few times prior to your surgery. If it feels uncomfortable or unnatural to you, try placing pillows underneath your slightly bent knees; a small pillow next to your head to lean against; or pillows underneath each of your arms.

Sleep Positions after Facial Surgery

After a facial surgery, such as facelift or eyelid surgery, you should sleep with your head elevated above your heart in order to minimize swelling. Your best bet may be to sleep in a recliner, or to add two to three pillows underneath your head to prop yourself up. Some patients use wedge pillows purchased from a medical supply store, or travel neck pillows. Sleep with the back of your head (not the sides) on the pillow or recliner cushion.

Sleep Positions after Body Surgery

After a body contouring procedure such as tummy tuck, you must avoid sleeping flat on your back, as it can put tension on your healing incision. Instead, sleep on a reclining chair or mimic the reclining position by putting pillows under your head and under your knees. When you get out of bed, roll to your side first to avoid straining your incision.

For more information about sleep positions after plastic surgery, please contact Raj Plastic Surgery today.