Breast augmentation is one of the most common plastic surgeries. There is a ton of information about the benefits and the recovery process of this surgery. However, we still get questions from patients about sleeping comfortably after this procedure. At Buckhead Plastic Surgery, we want you to feel your best at each step of the recovery process, so we’re here today to answer your questions and give you some tips about getting the rest you need as you recover.
How does sleep affect recovery after surgery?
Sleep is the most effective tool the body has to replenish energy. When your body is recovering from surgery, sickness, or injury, a significant amount of your daily energy is devoted to healing. Poor sleep can lead to a longer recovery timeline and greater pain levels. Unfortunately, sleep can be elusive, especially in the first few days following a breast augmentation surgery.
If you’re finding it difficult to sleep comfortably or for long periods in the first few days following surgery, that is normal and isn’t necessarily a predictor of your entire recovery process. However, after major surgery, it’s common to experience fatigue, and you might notice you’re more emotional than usual.
What is recovery like after breast augmentation?
Most breast augmentation surgeries are inpatient procedures, meaning you’ll stay at least one night at the hospital. We want you to devote all your energy to healing, so we prioritize managing your pain and medical needs immediately following surgery. After you return home, you’ll need help at home. The first week you’ll experience swelling, bruising, and pain. Soreness is part of recovery and will pass quicker if you closely follow your post-surgical instructions about lifestyle modifications.
Why is sleep so important after breast augmentation?
Like many surgeries, sleep is vital in the recovery process. Although most of us think of sleep as a time to shut down, our bodies work hard during those hours. In addition, the body uses the time where our active mind is at rest to attend to other areas of the body that require attention and healing. After breast augmentation, this is especially important for incision sites.
During our sleep, the brain triggers certain hormones vital to surgical recovery that aid in things like tissue repair and growth as well as repairing blood vessels. This restoration process of sore and damaged muscles helps your body heal after breast enhancement. In addition, sleep can help boost your immunity and reduce your chance of infections.
Sleep is also a time when our breathing slows down. When this happens, our body can relax sore muscles. Which can help reduce swelling and expedite your recovery after surgery.
Why is sleep so important after breast augmentation?
Like many surgeries, sleep is vital in the recovery process. Although most of us think of sleep as a time to shut down, our bodies work hard during those hours. In addition, the body uses the time where our active mind is at rest to attend to other areas of the body that require attention and healing. After breast augmentation, this is especially important for incision sites.
During our sleep, the brain triggers certain hormones vital to surgical recovery that aid in things like tissue repair and growth as well as repairing blood vessels. This restoration process of sore and damaged muscles helps your body heal after breast enhancement. In addition, sleep can help boost your immunity and reduce your chance of infections.
Sleep is also a time when our breathing slows down. When this happens, our body can relax sore muscles. Which can help reduce swelling and expedite your recovery after surgery.
How can I sleep comfortably after breast surgery?
It’s important to remember that the healing process is a progressive journey. Your commitment to following your surgeon’s advice is just as important as sleep. Following these steps will ensure you get the best results possible. Here are some helpful things to remember,
Plan Ahead
For side sleepers or tummy sleepers, the best thing you can do to aid in your recovery is to change your sleeping position before your surgery. This change can be a difficult transition for some, and it might require you to change your sleeping environment or the pillows you use to find a comfortable sleeping position. However, making this change ahead of time will cause less stress on your body and ease you into recovery.
Sleeping Elevated
Especially the first six weeks after breast augmentation sleeping on your back is critical. This sleeping position allows the muscles in your chest to relax and causes minimal strain on your incisions. However, sleeping flat on your back isn’t ideal and can even be hard to sit up from without straining. Sleeping at a 30-45 degree angle promotes blood flow and facilitates healing. Adding a few extra pillows might be just the thing you need to get comfy and the rest your body needs. Some patients even find that sleeping in a recliner is best in the first few weeks.
While you’re in the first stages of healing, it’s helpful to remember that this is only a temporary lifestyle adjustment. As your body continues to heal, you’ll eventually be able to sleep on your side and even your stomach as your body heals.
Tips to sleep well after breast augmentation
Although sleeping in the correct position will help your body recover faster, there are more steps you can take to get cozy and well-rested.
Take a walk
Although fatigue is a normal part of healing, moving around is encouraged from day one. Walking around your house can promote blood flow and reduce your chances of complications and blood clots. Just take it easy at first, and as your energy returns, you can add more movement.
Wear the right bra
You will receive specific instructions about what bras are best to wear after surgery. In addition, you will need to wear a support bra for at least a month, even at night. This will help your body heal, but it will also ease the tension on your incisions and help reduce swelling.
Warm Showers
There are few things more relaxing than a warm shower. Although soaking in a bath should be avoided for the first few weeks following surgery, a warm shower can help relax the muscles in your neck and back, leading to more peaceful sleep.
Avoid Caffeine
If you are having trouble getting the sleep you need, caffeine may be the culprit. Although it’s tempting to drink warm tea and coffee while you recover, these can lead to long nights with fitful sleep. Consider replacing them with water or switching to decaf while you recover.
Medication
It should be mentioned no one expects you to endure unnecessary post-op pain. However, we want your healing to be as comfortable as possible, so we prescribe pain medications to help you rest immediately after surgery. In addition, we’ll be here to advise you on what over-the-counter meds will be the most helpful as your recovery continues.
At Buckhead Plastic Surgery, your comfort and safety are our top priorities. We want you to be happy with your results and the recovery process. Our team will do everything to make you comfortable, informed, and well cared for.
Dr. Larsen’s Breast Augmentation Reviews
See a few verified reviews showing why Dr. Larsen is the best breast augmentation plastic surgeon in Atlanta.
“Between Dr. Larsen, the ladies in his office and the medical staff at Northside, everyone was absolutely outstanding. Extremely knowledgable about the procedure, what to expect before and after surgery, anything between. Would recommend Dr. Larsen to anyone who was looking for a breast augmentation or the Med Spa for additional products.”
“I was highly satisfied with my experience that I have referred 5 ppl to Dr. Larsen. From the beginning to the end I have had awesome communication with the staff as well as Dr. Larsen. I also have gone to the spa and done cool sculpting as well as some other procedures.”
“My experience with Buckhead Plastic Surgery was amazing, from my consultation to all my follow up appointments it has been wonderful. The staff is always helpful and friendly. Dr. Larson was amazing, he listened an answered all or my questions and always made me feel at ease. My results from my breast augmentation have been fantastic I love my new look!”
