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

You actually can sleep on your back with pillows positioned around so that you do not sleep on your sides or tummy. It will be too sore to sleep on your sides or tummy initially.

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.