Tummy tuck and lipo of upper back, flanks and thighs. Could I benefit from the pregnancy pillow?

Question

I’m generally a side sleeper. I’ve purchased a wedge pillow but was wondering if i could also benefit from the pregnancy pillow?

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for this interesting question. The best position to recovery after tummy tuck is when you laying down you most be 45 degree angle. When sitting down use the boppy pillow to avoid the butt get flat. Bend from for back and from your knees, "as an old lady" when you walk and when you lay down.Respectfully,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Mark K. Markarian, MD, MSPH, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  As the other physicians mentioned, it is best to ask your plastic surgeon what he/she recommends first.  In my practice, I recommend laying on your back with hips slightly flexed (I.e. knees closer to your chest) in your initial postoperative period to take tension off the waistline incision.  You can then gradually allow more extension at the waist (i.e. knees coming down) as pain permits.  Pillows or other accessories that facilitate this positioning can be useful.
Good luck.
Mark K Markarian, MD, MSPH
Harvard-trained Board
Certified Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you so much for your question. After a tummy tuck it is usually recommended that you sleep on your back or propped on your side with a pillow. As always,  it is best to discuss the protocol with a Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear HLADYTEE,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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Generally patients are most comfortable in a semi reclined position after a tummy tuck.  This allows the abdominal muscles to relax.  Once cleared to sleep on your side you may be comfortable using a pregnancy pillow, but typically just using a few bed pillows will suffice.

Gustavo E. Galante, MD · Answer

In general, for the procedures you are describing, you will likely be on your back for a few days in a flexed position, meaning bent at the waist. Your tummy will be tight initially, and this position will keep you most comfortable. Side sleeping may be possible, but you should discuss this with your surgeon as we all have different routines after surgery.

Tummy tuck and lipo of upper back, flanks and thighs. Could I benefit from the pregnancy pillow?

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