Sleeping upright after surgery?

Question

I have had my breast done just over 1 week now, how long do i need to sleep upright for post surgery as it's killing my back sleeping on so many pillows upright..

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

Some surgeons advise their patients to sleep upright for some extent of time after breast augmentation surgery. The reasons for doing so are:1- potentially helping the implants to "drop" more quickly due to the increased gravity and weight at the lower breast2- gravity helping to clear some of the swelling and fluid in the upper breast more quickly3-- sleeping upright makes it more difficult to roll on one's sides while sleeping, thereby potentially decreasing shifting of the implant while it is healing during the first week or two. However, my personal opinion is that none of the above reasons or scenarios are actually going to affect one's final outcome. The final position and appearance of the result will depend almost exclusively on the technique and dissection performed at the time of surgery. Sure, the implant will drop over time, and the swelling will settle over time, but having to sleep upright for one or more weeks may only slightly speed up that process, if at all. For many patients, the nuisance and potential backache associated with sleeping upright simply aren't worth the hassle if, in the end, the result will be no different. I personally do not include it as part of my postop instructions.So, I would check in with your surgeon and ask if it is OK to start sleeping on your back again. At one week out, and with and active backache, my guess is that he/she will have no problem with it. Best of luck!Dr. Subbio

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

After Breast Augmentation, Do I Have to Sleep On My Back?
There’s a myth that after breast augmentation surgery, you’ll need to sleep on your back for a week or longer. Many of my patients believe it, and they are worried that they won’t be able to get to sleep, because they normally lie on their side or their stomach.
They are not alone. According to the Better Sleep Council, fewer than 15 percent of people prefer to sleep on their back.
Let’s bust this myth: You don’t have to sleep on your back after breast augmentation surgery. You don’t have to stay up all night to make sure you don’t doze off and turn over onto your stomach. You can sleep any way you want from the night of surgery on, including on your stomach if you’re comfortable enough. Always a good idea to check with your surgeon's protocol.

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Hi there and thanks for your question. This is a great question for your plastic surgeon as he/she has seen you in person post augmentation, but generally speaking about a week is adequate time to sleep upright! You should be able to transition to sleeping on your back. Mostly sleeping in an upright position not only helps with swelling, but it also helps with settling and pressure relief. It is just important to not sleep on your side yet otherwise your implant can settle differently than intended. I would ask your surgeon (because everyone is different in how they educate) but typically 3-6 weeks is the time frame until you can sleep on your side. Hope this helps.

Lane Smith, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  As every surgeon has their own unique set of post op instructions, it is always best to first consult with your operating surgeon.  That being said, Typically we advise our patients to sleep on their back on an incline for a minimum of two weeks post surgery.  Best regards,Dr. Lane F. Smith, MDPlastic SurgeonLas Vegas, NV

Michael J. Brown, MD · Answer

Hi,

Thanks for posting your question. I am happy to try and help you. It is
important to remember that a board certified plastic surgeon will be your best
resource when it comes to an accurate assessment of your situation, and concerns.

Having said that, you should be fine to sleep on your back. Sleeping upright is for swelling and you are far enough out by now.

Best wishes,

Dr. Michael J. Brown (Northern Virginia Plastic Surgeon)

Sleeping upright after surgery?

Answers (9)

Answer: Breast augmentation Post OP

Answer: Breast augmentation Post OP

Answer: Sleeping upright after breast augmentation

Answer: Sleeping upright after breast augmentation

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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

Sleeping upright after surgery?

Answers (9)

Answer: Breast augmentation Post OP

Answer: Breast augmentation Post OP

Answer: Sleeping upright after breast augmentation

Answer: Sleeping upright after breast augmentation

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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