Will the scars ruin or the swelling not come down if I can only sleep on my stomach/side?

Question

Hi, I'm 54 years old with mild jowling. I would like to get a lower face lift however I simply CANNOT sleep unless I am on my stomach or side. I have tried sleeping pills or klonopin to help me relax to "practice" for my future lower face lift. I just cannot no matter how tired I am. I have tried everyone, recliners/wedges/travel u pillows. Thank you.

Stephen H. Fink, DO, FAOCO · Answer

Hi.
As a stomach sleeper myself, I understand your concern. The issue is that at the very least, gravity will pull bruises and swelling to the dependent positions. This could give you obvious bruises in areas of face where the surgery wasn't even performed making it  take longer for you to be presentable in public.  Bruises that travel downward can often be covered by clothing until they resolve. You should also avoid stretching or tension on the surgical area which could disrupt healing and cause bleeding (a hematoma) under the skin. I advise my patients to sleep with their head elevated above the heart. A good way to do this is to stack two pillows for the head and use a third under your back so it makes and incline. Usually with your head elevated, it is easier to stay on your back anyway. Realistically, the first few nights after surgery you probably won't get a very good nights sleep anyway.   Healing is a drain on your system but with the help of pain medication, most people can get some needed rest. Naps during the day may also be helpful during that first week.

My best to you,
Dr. Stephen Fink

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

It is ok to sleep on your face after surgery. The first few days you might have to sleep with a gentle wrap around dressing but after that you can sleep anyway you like and it will not ruin your results. RegardsDr. J

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

Hello!  Sleep is challenging for many people.  There shouldn't be any problem with you sleeping on your stomach or side if you wanted to.  After a neck lift or facelift you'll have a wrap around your face.  As long as you are wearing that you'll be fine.(As an aside - you may actually find you want to sleep on your back.  Many people who say the same as you find that the situation improves after surgery!)

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Its certainly acceptable to sleep in any position that makes you comfortable after a facelift procedure. We ask patients to try to keep their head above their heart  to reduce swelling, and  eat a low salt diet.  Much more important is choosing your surgeon based on experience producing natural results.

Will the scars ruin or the swelling not come down if I can only sleep on my stomach/side?

Answers (4)

Answer: Will the scars ruin or the swelling not come down if I can only sleep on my stomach/side?

Answer: Will the scars ruin or the swelling not come down if I can only sleep on my stomach/side?

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Will the scars ruin or the swelling not come down if I can only sleep on my stomach/side?

Answers (4)

Answer: Will the scars ruin or the swelling not come down if I can only sleep on my stomach/side?

Answer: Will the scars ruin or the swelling not come down if I can only sleep on my stomach/side?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lower Facelift

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