Tummy tuck/muscle repair - advice on transitioning to sleeping in a recliner to a bed?

Question

Hi y’all! My question might be silly but it’s been haunting me for a few days lol. I’ve been told that after an ETT, I’d have to sleep on a recliner/sofa. My intent is to sleep in the recliner for the first two weeks. Then transition to my own bed, still sitting up and my back supported with pillows, wedge pillows, etc. My main concern is that my bed is kinda high. Would I be causing too much pressure on the muscle repair? Or it shouldn’t be a problem cus I’d be two weeks post op?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Each surgeon will have her/his own post op protocol based on personal preferences as well as the details of your surgery.  Typically patients are able to sleep in either a recliner or a bed after returning home from surgery.  The semi reclined position with knees partially bent takes the pressure off of the healing abdomen. Pillows strategically placed under the knees and supporting the body are helpful for comfort.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @arii_harris, thank you for your question. It is always important to take into consideration the opinion of the specialist who performed the surgery. It depends a lot on the surgical technique and the technology used in this procedure. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear arii_harris,
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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You should be able to sleep in your bed at two weeks. Use a stool to get on the bed if needed, or stay in the recliner or sofa until you can easily get into bed.

Daniel Schmid, MD · Answer

As long as you are careful, at two weeks you should be able to go to your bed and sleep with pillows under your legs and behind your head.  You may need a step up to help you get into the bed if it is very elevated.

Tummy tuck/muscle repair - advice on transitioning to sleeping in a recliner to a bed?

Answers (6)

Answer: Sleeping

Answer: Sleeping

Answer: High bed after TT

Answer: High bed after TT

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Tummy tuck/muscle repair - advice on transitioning to sleeping in a recliner to a bed?

Answers (6)

Answer: Sleeping

Answer: Sleeping

Answer: High bed after TT

Answer: High bed after TT

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.