How to Sleep After Breast Augmentation

Rest is one of the most important parts of recovering from plastic surgery. However, if you just underwent breast augmentation at our Austin, Texas, practice, you may find sleep somewhat difficult. Swelling, new implants, and tight compression garments can make relaxation challenging. But if rest is a major part of healing and recovery, what are you supposed to do?

Over the years, our doctors have picked up a few useful tips to offer to our patients. If you’re researching how to sleep after breast augmentation, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Good Sleep Matters After Surgery

Good sleep is a major factor when it comes to a healthy recovery. Sleep aids your body’s natural healing and allows your body to repair itself. Sleep also lowers stress levels, which has both physical and mental benefits, allowing you to feel refreshed and alert. Eight hours a night is ideal for most people. This is especially true during recovery.

The Best Sleeping Positions

Finding the best sleeping position after breast augmentation can pose a bit of a challenge. Be sure to keep your chest elevated by sleeping in a recliner or get propped up with pillows in bed. This elevation prevents fluid buildup and makes it easier for you to stand or recline without straining your upper body. After about a week, sleep on your back to avoid putting pressure on your breasts. 

If you struggle with staying on your back at night, try sleeping with a pillow under each arm to stop you from rolling over. You will wear a soft and supportive surgical bra for the first few weeks, which can be worn to bed as well.

Tips for Getting Great Sleep

Want to feel more relaxed when tucking in at night? Try doing things like:

• Gently moving around during the day to improve circulation and spend pent-up energy. 
• Avoiding caffeine, blue light, sugar, and other sleep inhibitors, especially at night. 
• Practice sleeping in a recliner for a week before your surgery so it’s easier for you during recovery. 
• Managing stress by moving around, journaling, or simply talking with friends.

Bedtime may be a bit unusual those first few weeks after surgery. But with a bit of proper planning, you can sleep after breast augmentation surgery with much more comfort and ease. 

Browse our before-and-after gallery to see real results from real patients. If you would like to learn more about breast enhancement from our plastic surgeons in the Austin, TX, area, contact our practice online. You can also call our office by phone at (512) 244-1439 (Austin) or (512) 244-1444 (Round Rock).