BBL recovery. How long before you can lay on your back and or side after surgery? Do I have to sleep on my stomach?

Dear 8675309sly,I instruct my patients not to sit for 2 solid weeks. We provide them a specialized pillow that our patients can sit on during that time. They can sleep on their stomachs or sides. But every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

You need to avoid putting pressure directly on your buttocks for at least 2 weeks, so sleeping on your sides and front is best.

Hello 8675309sly,

It’s a pleasure to answer your questions! Putting pressure on your buttocks by sitting down or laying on it, especially for long periods of time, can stiffen, deform and even cause the transplanted fat cells to reabsorb. In the case you can’t absolutely elude sitting, I recommend you doing it in a modified position, placing a bolster or rolled-up towel under the back of the thighs while sitting down, as to avoid significant pressure. There is also a variety of post Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery support cushions available on the market. Moreover, I suggest my patients stomach sleeping, having different pillows at hand and changing their neck’s position from time to time, to feel more comfortable in bed. Side sleeping can also be an option after BBL, but only if you feel certain you won’t end up on your back. Most of your weight will be on the front of one of your hips. Your legs will be sprawled out, and you can place a pillow in between them to make it more comfortable. Hope this is helpful! Dr. De La Cruz.