How long after a Tummy Tuck am I able to sleep in my own bed?

Question

I am 3 weeks post and obviously I know I can't physically lay flat yet, but when can I sleep in bed, either on my back or side without interrupting the healing process? And is it too soon to stand straight? I have no pain but feel a little pull if I stand completely straight without realizing it.

Roxanne Sylora, MD · Answer

The time it takes to get back comfortably in your own bed varies from person to person.  On average it is 3-4 weeks for someone to get back in to their bed.  Standing straight usually only takes a few days however, and if you only feel a slight pull, but not very painful, it should be ok to stand straight; if you wait too long, your back will suffer.  You can try to use pillows behind your back or under your knees to make yourself more comfortable in bed as well.  Many people use a reclining chair or lazy boy for the first few weeks to sleep as it is also easier to get in and out of in the beginning.

Jose Perez-Gurri, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question. I have our patients lie on their back and in their bed the day they go home. We advise them to place two-three pillows below heir knees and a couple behind their back so that they are at a reclined position. Lying completely flat will take a while and will vary from patient to patient. Always ask your surgeon. We all have our own formulas for success. Good luck

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

Your own surgeon will be able to advise you best on this question, but at 3 weeks it seems that you should be able to sleep in your own bed and stand upright.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Did you ask your chosen operative surgeon? We do not know your medical/surgical history so can not advise for you.. Please call your PS..

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

A modified beach chair position is usually recommended to take some of the pressure off of your abdominoplasty incisions.  You should be able to sleep in your bed and use pillows to get into the best position.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Always best to run postoperative questions by your own plastic surgeon, but with the appropriate use of pillows behind the back and below the knees, you should be able to  sleep in your own bed. It is probable that your plastic surgeon will also okay sleeping in the fetal position ( which may be helpful in taking pressure off the lower back). Best wishes.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

As long as you're back and head are flexed or lifted up right by pillows or back support so that you're comfortable lying in bed you should be able to do so.  However it is crucial that you ask your plastic surgeon for specific advice.  Most patients 3 weeks after tummy tuck are able to stand up straight.

How long after a Tummy Tuck am I able to sleep in my own bed?

Answers (7)

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