When can I sleep on my belly after an explant and lift?

Question

Two weeks ago I had a BBL, explant with a lift done. I was told I could sleep on my back using my Boppy pillow or on my sides. I have been doing this, but I am afraid of compromising my BBL results and am also concerned about my breast if I'm sleeping on my sides. What can happen to my breast by sleeping on my side. When should I start sleeping on my belly?

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

After
breast implant revision or removal surgery, I advise the patients to take one week off from work.
 At that point we take out their stitches and drains.  The patients may return to work, but may not engage in any
strenuous activity.  At one month, the patients start to wear a soft cup
bra with no underwire and can start low impact cardio. This is when it is safe to sleep on your side or belly.  At two months they
can wear an underwire bra and engage in more strenuous physical activity.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  As you have discovered, positioning is difficult with combined procedures.  Discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Sleeping on your tummy after a lift can put pressure on the incisions and impact your healing.  If your surgeon has given the green light you can sleep on your side with proper support.  It's always best to closely follow your surgeon's instructions for optimal results.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Best to clarify your plastic surgeon's recommendations directly,  asking his/her rationale behind the recommendations. In my practice, I ask patients to avoid sleeping on their abdomens  for at least 2 to 3 months after breast  lifting surgery to avoid pressure directly on the incision lines.  Generally, sleeping on the sides  is allowed 2-3 weeks after surgery. Best wishes.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I allow patients to sleep on their stomach several weeks after surgery. It really is more of an issue with comfort rather than worrying about ruining the result.

Michael E. Ciaravino, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

I recommend that my patients wait at least a minimum of 4 weeks before trying to sleep on their stomach. Initially there may be some discomfort and waiting longer than the 4 weeks may be necessary.

When can I sleep on my belly after an explant and lift?

Answers (6)

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