How to Get the Rest You Need after Your Breast Procedure
- Posted on: Sep 15 2020
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Surgery of any kind is physiologically taxing. This means that, after your exciting plastic surgery procedure to enhance your breasts and body, you will need more rest than normal. This can be challenging, especially after a procedure like breast augmentation or a mommy makeover. We want our patients to have the best possible experience as they get the body they’ve wanted, so we’re offering some of our best tips on ensuring you can get restorative sleep as you recover from surgery.
Start with Reclining
When surgery is performed on the upper half of the body, including the abdomen and breasts, it is necessary to keep these areas elevated from the lower body. One way to do this easily is to sleep in a recliner for several days after surgery. If you don’t have a recliner, don’t worry. Another way you can recline comfortably is to bolster yourself with several pillows. Be prepared with at least three if you’ve had a mommy makeover that includes abdominoplasty. When you recline at a 45- to 60-degree angle, your upper body doesn’t have to work so hard when you want to stand up.
When You Can Lie Down, Do it On Your Back
Once you feel well enough to sleep flat, you’ll need to do that on your back. This is because breast augmentation surgery can lead to soreness and tenderness. Placing excessive pressure on your abdomen or chest after a breast procedure or mommy makeover can make you more uncomfortable, keeping you from getting the quality sleep you need to recover optimally. If you’re not used to sleeping on your back, begin working on this a few weeks before your surgery. It can help to place a pillow under each arm to keep you from rolling.
Wear Your Support
After your breast procedure, a gentle compression garment like a surgical bra will be applied. This will need to be worn for several days, including when you sleep. Wearing compression when sleeping prevents unnecessary movement that can increase soreness or tenderness. It also prevents tugging on incisions that are still healing.
Prepare Your Body and Mind for a Good Night’s Sleep
There are a few things that can get in the way of a good night’s sleep. You may know the common culprits, including caffeine and sugar. Watching television or using your phone before bed can also inhibit good sleep. This is because doing so increases brain activity. Additionally, some studies show that drinking wine at night can cause restlessness, even if you initially fall asleep well. Try a hot cup of herbal tea as an alternative.
We are proud to serve areas in and around Houston and Sugar Land, TX. Call 713.271.9000 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Altamira to get the body you deserve.
Posted in: Breast Augmentation