Why is it important to sleep in an upright position after a breast augmentation??

Question

I was told by the nurse practitioner after surgery to sleep sitting up. Why exactly is that? Also usually how long is it needed to sleep sitting up?

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

I actually don't think it is very important at all.  I usually tell my patients to sleep with a couple extra pillows if they can tolerate it.  If it is in the least bit uncomfortable or annoying, it's not going to make any difference in the long-term anyway.Best of luck!
Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Michael Horn, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You should sleep on your back with your head elevated for the first four to five days after surgery to reduce your discomfort and swelling.  You can sleep on your side or stomach after four to five days or when you feel comfortable. Happy healing!  :)

Richard A. Bartlett, MD · Answer

Dear carpenter0623,Thank you for your question. Swelling and bruising dissipate with gravity. Sleeping upright helps to reduce swelling more quickly, which could help you feel more comfortable sooner.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Hello Carpenter!Sleeping upright after surgery helps to reduce swelling faster. It also helps to keep the implants from falling right into your rib cage. This, in turn, limits the pain you feel.Place a few (3) pillows behind your back when sleeping or use a recliner. It's that simple.Best wishes, Dr. ALDO :)

Andre Panossian, MD · Answer

I don't always make my patients sleep upright.  The thought is that the breast implants will stay low in the pocket and not ride up, creating a malpositioned implant.  This isn't necessary if the pocket has been created exactly to the size of the breast implant.  I will very meticulously create the breast pocket to avoid migration of the implant into the upper parts of the breast.  But I would assume that is the reason you are being asked to sleep with your head elevated (doesn't have to be perfectly upright).

Marc J. Salzman, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

I don't tell my patients to sleep upright because it makes no sense. Either the pocket is created correctly, or it's not. Most smooth walled implants, when placed under the muscle will want to ride high for a little bit due to the tension in the overlying muscle. As the muscle relaxes, the implants will drop naturally into the space created for them. In my opinion, the only thing that can inhibit that from happening is a bra that's worn too tightly with a underwire. Hope that's helpful.

Why is it important to sleep in an upright position after a breast augmentation??

Answers (6)

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