Breast augmentation is undeniably one of the most in-demand cosmetic procedures year after year for women of all ages, and many of these women have a similar set of questions leading up to their procedure. Near the top of breast augmentation FAQs often lies the question, “Can I sleep on my stomach with breast implants?” Beverly Hills board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Hakimi understands the worry that many women have about adjusting their sleeping position after breast augmentation and is committed to ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidence by providing comprehensive aftercare guidelines and recovery instructions. Use this helpful information from Dr. Hakimi on how to sleep after breast augmentation, why it matters, and when you may be able to return to your preferred sleeping position.
How long is breast augmentation recovery?
Before you can even begin to think about sleeping on your stomach, you’ll first need to heal and recover from surgery. In the first few days of breast augmentation recovery, it is normal to experience some level of discomfort, bruising, and swelling. The breasts will also feel firm and sit higher on the chest than you may have expected. All of these breast augmentation side effects should resolve over the course of several weeks or months, after which time you’ll begin to see your stunning new figure taking shape.
While most women are able to return to work about 7 – 10 days after breast augmentation, strenuous physical activity, lifting, straining, and exercise should be paused for at least six weeks. Throughout a series of postoperative follow-up appointments, Dr. Hakimi will closely monitor your healing progress and let you know when it is safe to resume all of your normal daily routines.
Some of the fundamental behaviors you should practice during breast augmentation recovery include:
- Get plenty of rest
- Stay hydrated
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Wear supportive bra as recommended
- Do not submerge incisions
- Attend all follow-up appointments
- Take medications as directed
- Avoid heavy lifting, straining, and exercise
- Avoid direct pressure on the breasts
How should I sleep during breast augmentation recovery?
Almost immediately after getting breast implants, you should plan to sleep on your back for at least a couple of weeks. This may sound impossible if you’re usually a front-sleeper, but try not to worry! The overwhelming majority of patients agree that back-sleeping is naturally more comfortable during breast augmentation recovery. Not only does it prevent excess pressure from being put on your sensitive incisions and healing tissues, but it can also help reduce the risk of implant displacement, torn sutures, and other complications.
If you are worried about the potential of shifting to your stomach while sleeping, it can be helpful to use extra pillows or rolled-up towels around your sides to create a cocoon or nest-like pod. Many women choose to sleep in a recliner after breast augmentation surgery to ensure they remain on their back throughout the night. If you do inadvertently roll to your side or stomach, there is likely nothing to worry about, though you should return to your back as soon as you notice.
When can I sleep on my stomach again after breast augmentation?
Keep in mind, sleeping on your back after breast augmentation doesn’t have to last forever! As your incisions heal and your breasts become softer and less swollen, you should begin to notice that sleeping on your side or stomach feels more and more comfortable each week. It is generally considered safe and appropriate to return to your preferred sleeping position after about 2 – 4 weeks, given there were no complications. For most women, however, it typically takes several additional weeks or months before they feel 100% comfortable on their stomachs. Just as it takes time to get used to the feeling of a new crown in your mouth, it may take some time to adjust to the feeling of an implant in your body.
Is it safe to stomach-sleep with implants?
Once you have fully recovered from breast augmentation, sleeping on your front side should be perfectly safe. However, it is important to pay attention to your body. If it feels uncomfortable or painful to lie on your stomach, it may mean you’re not quite ready to transition yet. Simply continue sleeping on your back for the time being, and try returning to your favorite sleeping position again after a few additional weeks.
Get back to your normal life – with a sexy new figure – sooner than you think after breast augmentation in Beverly Hills, CA
You can rest easy knowing that board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Hakimi shares in your desires to get you back to your favorite activities and routines – including sleeping on your stomach – as soon as safely possible. To learn more about the exciting possibilities of breast augmentation in Beverly Hills, CA, call Dr. Hakimi’s office to schedule your one-on-one consultation today!
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Breast Augmentation