Sleeping after breast augmentation - If I can't sleep on my back am I at risk of serious complications?

There may be sleeping position concerns but shouldn't exclude from breast augmentation candidacy. While back sleeping is recommended post-operatively, side sleeping primarily affects healing outcomes rather than causing serious medical complications.
Risks of early side sleeping:- Implant displacement or malposition- Asymmetry development- Increased localized swelling- Compromised incision healing- Potential capsule irregularities
Key points:- Most risks are aesthetic, not medical emergencies- Critical period is typically 2-4 weeks post-surgery- Recovery pillows and wedges can help maintain position- Many patients inadvertently side-sleep without significant issues
I recommend you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon. Individual recovery protocols vary, and your surgeon may offer modified recommendations based on your specific situation and surgical technique used.

Great question–I think sleep position plays a bigger role in healing the most people realize. After a breast augmentation the ideal position is typically on your back with your upper body slightly elevated. This helps to minimize swelling, reduce tension on incisions andsupport proper implant settling during early healing.
I recommend sleeping in a recliner or using a wedge pillow for the first 1 to 2 weeks. After that, side sleeping is usually fine as long as it is comfortable. It is best to avoid sleeping on your stomach for at least 6 weeks, since this position can shift the implants or put excessive pressure on the healing tissue.
That said, every patient and surgical plan is a little different, so it is a good idea to follow your specific postop instructions closely. Recovery protocols may vary based on factors like implant size, placement (under or over the muscle), and your natural tissue characteristics.
Dr. Brandon LambirisBoard-Certified Plastic Surgeon–Sarasota, FL

Every surgeon will vary in their post op recommendations.

I typically encourage patients to sleep elevated and supine (back) for 6 weeks post op. Once healed, these recommendations can be liberalized.

The goal is to allow for healing without undue pressure in one direction or another. The implants are placed in a pocket that was specifically dissected for them. Pressure can further dissect the pocket and allow for migration.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

For the first week, many woman find it most comfortable to sleep on their backs. Switching to side sleeping at any point should not affect the overall result of your augmentation. Good luck and sleep comfortably.

It’s very common to feel stressed about post-op sleeping restrictions, but not being able to sleep on your back doesn’t automatically mean you’re a poor candidate for breast augmentation. Most surgeons recommend sleeping on your back for the first 2–4 weeks to protect your implants and reduce swelling.
If back-sleeping is truly impossible for you, discuss this openly with your surgeon. They can provide tailored advice and suggest ways to make back sleeping more comfortable or adjust your post-op care plan.

Dear samiramoe,

I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.
It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.


Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

It is strongly advised to sleep on your back after breast aug. I advise 45-degree elevation on back for the first week and then on your back for 5 weeks following. There is a possibility that aesthetic results could be altered or even worse, bleeding complications could occur by not following post op instructions.

Unfortunately, if your surgeon recommends that you sleep on your back in the first part of your recovery, you’ll have to do so to minimize the risk of complications developing, some of which can put you at serious risk. It can be quite difficult to change your sleeping position. Have you tried positioning pillows to keep you in place? Deep breathing can also help. Your surgeon will be able to provide you with more tips.

Side Sleeping After Breast Implants
There’s a myth that after breast augmentation surgery, you’ll need to sleep on your back for a week or longer. Many of my patients believe it, and they are worried that they won’t be able to get to sleep, because they normally sleep on their side or their stomach.
They are not alone. According to the Better Sleep Council, fewer than 15 percent of people prefer to sleep on their back.
Let’s bust this myth: You don’t have to sleep on your back after breast augmentation surgery. You don’t have to stay up all night to make sure you don’t doze off and turn over onto your stomach. You can sleep any way you want from the night of surgery on, including on your stomach if you’re comfortable enough. I feel patients and implants are not that fragile. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Thank you for your question. You can sleep on your back and also sides after the breast augmentation surgery. Only position we want you to avoid after the breast augmentation surgery is sleeping on your chest until the İmplants completely settle.