With the modern technologies and techniques available today, recovery after breast augmentation surgery is much faster, more comfortable, and more convenient than ever. In fact, most patients are able to resume a great deal of their daily routines — like light desk work — within a week or so after surgery. Still, there are some activities that may be off-limits for several weeks or months, and there are several important things patients will need to plan for in order to ensure the smoothest and most successful healing process possible. For example, it may be necessary to temporarily adjust your sleeping position after a breast augmentation. In this blog from Premier Surgical Arts, Altoona, WI, general surgeon Dr. Dax Demaree offers helpful information about what to expect after breast augmentation surgery and, specifically, how, why, and for how long patients may need to change the way they sleep.
All about breast augmentation recovery
The details of breast augmentation recovery will vary from patient to patient, with one of the most impactful factors being the type of surgery that was performed. Generally speaking, recovery after getting breast implants is somewhat longer and more involved than recovery after a fat transfer breast augmentation.
After getting breast implants, the first few days should be devoted to rest, with the exception of walking to and from the bathroom or around the house to encourage blood circulation and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clot. Over the next several days, patients will notice bruising, swelling, and some discomfort. Dr. Demaree will discuss strategies and solutions to keep these symptoms at bay. Within about 1 – 2 weeks, it is usually safe and appropriate to resume very light desk work and household chores. Lifting, raising your arms above your head, exercising, running, jumping, and other more strenuous activities and positions will remain prohibited for about 6 – 8 weeks, or until cleared by Dr. Demaree.
Around the two-month mark, the breasts should feel softer, sit at a more natural position on the chest, and the vast majority of postsurgical swelling should have resolved, allowing patients to finally enjoy the new look and feel of their breasts.
Do I have to sleep on my back with breast implants?
One of the most popular questions from women considering breast augmentation surgery is whether they’ll still be able to sleep on their stomachs. The answer is yes, after healing and recovery are complete, it is usually considered safe and appropriate to return to your preferred sleeping position. For the first 4 – 6 weeks after surgery, however, patients should plan to sleep on their back in a slightly elevated position, similar to how you would lie in a reclining chair. This helps to:
- Reduce swelling
- Improve pain and discomfort
- Keep pressure off the healing incisions and tissues
- Prevent the reopening of incisions
During your follow-up appointments, Dr. Demaree will evaluate your healing progress and let you know when you can safely go back to your preferred sleeping position, whether that be on your side or stomach.
Questions about breast augmentation surgery in Altoona, WI? Let us help
When it comes to breast augmentation surgery, we understand that it is a life-changing decision that you may have many questions about, and we are here to help. To learn more about how breast augmentation surgery works, what choices you have for breast implants, and what results may be possible for you, call Premier Surgical Arts in Altoona, WI to schedule your private consultation with distinguished general surgeon Dr. Dax Demaree today.