Sleep is always important, but when you are recovering from a procedure like breast augmentation or other plastic surgery, that is even truer. Quality rest promotes healing and keeps your immune system in top shape.
But if you’re having trouble sleeping comfortably after surgery, getting enough rest can be difficult. So, how can you sleep well after plastic surgery?
Hack Your Sleep Ahead of Time
Try sleeping in a recliner for the first few nights after getting plastic surgery.
You already know heading into surgery that it is going to change the way you sleep, both in terms of quality and comfort. One trick to making it easier is to start practicing good sleep habits in advance. Keep screens out of the bedroom, make your bed a comfy oasis and start a pre-bed routine that helps get your mind into sleep mode.
Of course, the biggest task will be acclimating to the new sleep position you will need while healing from your procedure. What that position is will depend on the procedure you get.
Match Sleep Position to Procedure
While you’re sleeping, you don’t want to be putting unnecessary pressure on the treatment area. For the majority of plastic surgeries, this means that you’ll need to lie on your back. For example, with facial plastic surgery, breast augmentation and tummy tucks, sleeping on your back ensures that you won’t put pressure on the directly treated areas.
However, this isn’t universally true. Certain procedures such as a Brazilian butt lift and liposuction on your back, buttocks or other similar areas will require that you sleep on your side or stomach instead.
Ultimately, how to sleep after plastic surgery depends on the procedures you get. Be certain to discuss sleep strategies at your plastic surgery consultation. And as always, if you have any questions, contact Green Hills Plastic Surgery directly.
Author: Dr. Stephen M. Davis
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen M. Davis and his experienced team are committed to total patient satisfaction and excellent results. Green Hills Plastic Surgery first opened its doors in Nashville, TN in 1998 and continues to provide patients with time-honored plastic surgery procedures at TriStar Centennial Medical Center.
