How long do I have to sleep on my back after a breast augmentation?

Studies have shown that sleeping positions can affect the shape of your breasts, whether you have implants or not.  Typically, this is present with side sleeping and with how your arm on the 'down' side typically cups the breast.  Nevertheless, studies have also shown the dangers of not sleeping.  Because of this, I typically recommend to patients that they sleep on their back ideally, ... but, I allow patients to sleep on their side if they cannot sleep on their back.  I recommend a pillow to help make sure the patient does not turn onto their stomach and I also recommend switching sides if possible.  Stomach sleeping is definitely not recommended.  It can negatively affect breast shape, facial aging, and can also put the neck in poor positions and cause serious cervical issues.  

I ask my patients to wait 6 weeks before sleeping on their side or stomach after a breast augmentation.

After breast augmentation, i recommend using surgical bra all the time and sleeping on back with head propped up for 6-8 weeks, very strictly not lying on their sides or tummy. This helps the implant to settle down in the place in its pocket. Sleeping on sides might lead to implant displacement to the sides and lying on tummy can again lead to implant displacement. Some patients find it difficult and uncomfortable sleeping on their back for such long duration and exercise can help them with this.

I always recommend my patients to sleep on their back for at least 4 weeks so the implants can heal properly and remain in the correct place. I also recommend sleeping in a specific post op bra for 3 months.

Hello and thank you for this great question.

Essentially, 6-8 weeks following surgery you can resume any type of sleeping position that is comfortable. In the first few weeks, the swelling and healing process is helped by sleeping on your back and sometimes with head elevated. By 6-8 weeks, we're not worried about the implant moving or flipping in the pocket, by this time it is healed and matured.

Following your surgery, the best position for safe sleeping is on your back with your upper body slightly elevated. This position can be achieved by propping some pillows underneath which can help breast swelling and soreness.
We recommend all patients sleep on their back for four weeks. It can help assure the final results and reduce the risk of capsular contracture. Many patients can return to sleeping on their side while wearing their post-operative bra for support after four weeks but avoid sleeping on your stomach until you are given clearance by your plastic surgeon which may be after six weeks.

I usually suggest to my patients to wear a tubigrip or post operative bra whilst sleeping to support the implants. During the first 6 weeks it is often best to sleep on your back or at least on your sides to maintain the implants in the correct position and help prevent implant malposition. Most patients can tolerate sleeping on their back for the first 7-10 days and then are comfortable to move on the side. Lying on a firm surface or pressing firmly on the could displace or move the implants in the early healing period. Position pillows on either side of your body to prevent you rolling over in your sleep. You should always seek advice from your treating doctor regarding any questions you have. 

Each surgeon will have their own recommendations for this. In my practice, we typically recommend that patients sleep on their back for about two weeks. After that, if they have trouble sleeping on their back they can transition to sleeping on their side. However, we recommend using pillows to support your side and breast. It is best to discuss this with your surgeon to find out his or her preferences. 

Thank you for your question. It is recommended to sleep on your back for the first month and half but every surgeon has their own post op care that they would prefer for you to follow. Please refer to your surgeon for details. Good luck on your recovery.

Hi, thank you for your question. Informed patients are always the best!
For people who sleep better on their side or stomach, this surgery may create a problem in getting good sleep. It is generally advisable to sleep on your back for 6-8 weeks after breast augmentation to prevent any unrealized deforming forces on the implant pocket during sleep that may manifest in an asymmetric shape later on.
Every surgeon has their own post-op regimen and I recommend that you follow your surgeon's guidelines. If you are unable to sleep while laying on your back, talk to your doctor. She/he may allow you to sleep on your side as early as 1 week post-op. 
Laying on your chest is typically not advised after breast augmentation and can be quite uncomfortable as well. 
I hope this answers your question. Good luck in your recovery process!