Getting a good night’s sleep is a vital part of the recovery process for any type of surgery. There can be a particular set of challenges when it comes to cosmetic procedures such as breast augmentation. One of the biggest obstacles for many is finding the right position that enables you to get a good night’s sleep.
This guide will help you understand why sleep is essential after surgery, how to find an optimal position after breast augmentation, and tips to help you get ready for bed.
Why Sleep After Surgery Is Important
After any type of surgery, including cosmetic procedures such as breast augmentation, the body needs to heal. Even minimally invasive, in-office cosmetic procedures can still affect the body, causing bruising and swelling. The incision site also needs to heal properly, and the immune system needs to be strong to fight off potential infections.
In addition to staying hydrated and eating a healthy diet, postoperative sleep is one of the best ways to heal during the recovery process from surgery. When you’re asleep, your body goes into rest mode and spends less energy and blood flow on the functions you use during the day, including moving, decision-making, and other strenuous activities. Instead, this energy and blood flow is used to help the mind and body heal from injuries and stressful events such as surgery.
The challenge is that the physical discomfort and mental stress from surgery can be the very thing that makes sleep difficult after a procedure. This can lead to a vicious cycle where your body isn’t healing properly due to lack of sleep, but pain and discomfort inhibit your ability to sleep.
By understanding how to sleep comfortably after breast augmentation and properly prepare for bedtime, you can jumpstart your recovery and get the best possible results.
For a Good Night’s Sleep After Breast Augmentation, Position Is Key
When recovering from breast augmentation, it is critical to sleep on your back.
Sleeping on your back helps to reduce pressure on the breasts and keep them in a natural position during sleep to reduce swelling and fluid buildup. It is also recommended to keep your body elevated as much as possible to enhance circulation.
Side or stomach sleepers should prepare to sleep on their backs as early as possible before the procedure. This way, it feels more natural when you are recovering. Extra pillows for support and positioning can ensure that sleeping on your back is more natural and comfortable during this period.
You may also want to wear a supportive bra or compression garment while sleeping. This can help to keep the breasts in place and reduce stress on the incision site. Ask your cosmetic surgeon which type of garment may be best for you.
5 Tips to Prepare for a Good Night’s Sleep After Cosmetic Surgery
These tips can help anyone recovering from cosmetic procedures, including breast augmentation, prepare for bedtime and get the rest they need to heal:
1. Move around during the day
Follow postoperative instructions for moving around the house for short periods while avoiding strenuous activity. Regular light movement helps improve blood flow, loosen joints, and prevent blood clots.
2. Take prescribed medication as needed
The Innovations Medical team recommends taking the first prescription pain dosage before bed to limit pain and discomfort during the first night. After that, patients should only take as needed or take over-the-counter medications only.
3. Take a warm shower
Taking a warm shower can help calm the body and relax the muscles, making sleep easier. Talk to your surgical team about bathing instructions for your particular procedure.
4. Avoid caffeine and sugar
Stay away from any food or drinks that are known to disturb sleep for at least three to four hours before bedtime.
5. Get ready to sleep by lowering the lights and turning off screens
Your mind needs to relax and be in a non-stimulated state for your body to follow. To get ready for bed, lower the lights, put away your phone, and turn off the TV at least an hour before bed. Instead, listen to calm music, read a relaxing book, and focus on deep breathing.
When you go to bed, turn off the lights and take slow, deep breaths. Keep a positive attitude, and remember to stay on your back even if you start to turn.
Enhanced Breast Augmentation Recovery at Innovations Medical
Enhanced Breast Augmentation at Innovations Medical is designed to be a minimally invasive procedure to support an easier and quicker recovery. Most patients will experience mild swelling and bruising, with the bruising subsiding in two weeks and the swelling within six weeks. With good sleep and recovery, you should see continuous improvement in your shape over the next six months.
Contact Innovations Medical for Information on Breast Augmentation
If you’re looking for a shapelier figure, including a fuller bust, Innovations Medical is here for you. Our skilled professionals help you decide which treatment is best for you – keeping you informed and confident in the next steps. We’ve been helping our patients look and feel their best since 2005, and even our most advanced procedures are often minimally invasive.
To find out if breast augmentation is right for you, how to prepare for recovery, and to learn how Innovations Medical can improve your life, call us at (214) 643-8665 or schedule an appointment.