In 2020 alone, 4,702 breast augmentations were performed in the United Kingdom, and the surgery remains as one of the most popular procedures around the globe. Breast augmentations are well sought-after for various reasons: for those in the pursuit of increasing breast size and volume; restoring breast volume after having children; as a corrective means; restoring a natural look after a mastectomy; or maybe even because they have lost weight – the list goes on.
However, learning what to expect after the procedure and how to recover from it correctly is a crucial element in the procedure’s overall success. Indeed, the augmentation itself may have gone really well, but the steps you take in the recovery time post-procedure could have lasting effects, too.
That’s why we here at Dr John are here to help you with some words of advice following your breast augmentation surgery.
The Importance of Sleep Following Surgery
For those who don’t already know, sleep is super important following surgery. Not only is it enjoyable, but sleep provides space for your body to enter a state of repair and rejuvenation. Sleep is also one of the major times in which your body will undergo physiological changes and heals itself, so it is crucial that you prioritise your sleep after surgery to recover promptly.
How to Get a Good Sleep
Following the surgery – provided that you aren’t too groggy from the initial bout of anaesthesia – it may help to walk around as much as you can. This is not only essential for your physical and mental health, but it also improves your blood flow and quickens wound healing. Failure to move your body around puts you at higher risk for infections, blood clots and lung problems. However, please note that this doesn’t mean that you should resume exercise – your surgeon should inform you of when this is safe to do so.
Sleeping upright is another useful tip to ensure upon a smooth recovery from the procedure. Doing so means that you aren’t using your arm and chest muscles, which isn’t advised after a breast augmentation. Sleeping upright also means that you don’t have to reach, pull or hoist yourself up to get out of bed (or your recliner).
On top of this, your surgeon will probably suggest that you wear a supportive bra. A supportive bra will provide more comfort than a regular one, as it will hold your breasts in place and ease tension on your incisions.
It may seem obvious but reducing or avoiding the typical sleep disruptors like caffeine, sugar, alcohol and electronic screens may help to ensure upon a good night’s sleep, too.
Best Positions to Sleep in
On your back
Typically, breast augmentations do require a period of sleeping on your back with your upper body slightly elevated. Most people typically achieve this by sleeping on a recliner, or by propping their upper body up with pillows, or a specially bought post-surgery pillow. It may not be ideal for everybody, but it is well worth experimenting with what works for you.
On your side
Although not ideal, it is still possible to sleep on your side after your procedure. However, sleeping in this position requires extra precaution, in order to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on your breasts. The best way to sleep on your side is by placing a pillow under them, whilst wearing a surgical bra.
Are you interested in undergoing breast augmentation surgery, or simply want to know more about it/the recovery? Contact us here, today!
