Sleeping properly after breast reduction surgery is a crucial part of the recovery process, as it helps support healing, prevent further injury to the incision sites, reduce discomfort, and lower the risk of complications. Knowing how to adjust your sleeping habits will make a significant difference in your recovery. Here are some key sleeping guidelines for you to follow after the surgery.
1. Sleep on Your Back with Head and Shoulders Elevated
Sleeping on your back with your upper body elevated is the recommended position after breast reduction surgery. This position prevents unnecessary pressure or strain on the chest area, allowing the incision sites to heal normally. When sleeping or resting, elevate your head using two to three pillows or use a recliner at a 30-45-degree angle. This helps reduce post-operative breast swelling by promoting fluid drainage away from the chest area. Sleep in the recommended position in the first few weeks to promote the healing of breast tissues. In addition, it is recommended to avoid sleeping on your side or stomach as these positions can put pressure or strain on the incision sites.
2. Use Extra Pillows or a Body Pillow for Support
Using extra pillows does not only provide comfort but also stability. This strategy helps prevent you from shifting to your side while you sleep, thus preventing strain on the chest area. It is recommended to use a body pillow or wedge pillow for added support when sleeping on your back. For those who are unaccustomed to back-sleeping, extra pillows can make the transition easier and more comfortable by reducing pressure on the shoulders and lower back. With consistent use, this setup can improve sleep quality and ensure you remain in the correct sleeping position for healing.
3. Wear Your Surgical Bra Religiously
After the surgery, you will need to wear a supportive surgical bra both day and night to help with the wound healing process. This specialised bra provides gentle compression, which can help reduce swelling and stabilise the breast tissue. In addition, the gentle compression provided by a surgical bra helps improve blood circulation to the chest area, which is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the healing tissues. Furthermore, the bra reduces movement that could strain the incision sites, allowing the surgical wound to heal faster. Depending on the surgeon’s recommendation, the surgical bra can be removed when bathing to allow wound cleaning and check the breast area for any signs of complications.
4. Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment
One of the most important factors in achieving restful sleep after breast reduction is a comfortable and calm environment. Modifying your sleep space can have a significant impact on your recovery process, as it helps promote relaxation and supports healing. To create this environment, consider using soft bedding that feels gentle against your skin, adjusting the room temperature to a cool, comfortable level, and keeping essentials like water and any prescribed medications within easy reach. Additionally, set up a dedicated rest area with pillows arranged for support to help you maintain the recommended sleeping position. Depending on your preferences, you may also want to use curtains or blinds to block out light, further enhancing relaxation and helping you achieve a more restful, uninterrupted sleep.
5. Set Up a Nighttime Routine to Aid Sleep
A consistent nighttime routine can improve the quality of your sleep and make it easier to settle into a comfortable position. There are times when you will have difficulty falling asleep after the surgery due to some discomfort. To address this, take the prescribed medications (e.g. pain relievers or anti-inflammatories) and follow aftercare instructions, such as applying an ice compress to the breast area. You can also engage in activities that promote relaxation, such as watching movies, reading, meditating, or listening to calming music before you sleep. Make sure to stick to a sleep schedule to give your body more time to heal.
6. Listen to Your Body and Adjust as Needed
It’s normal to experience some discomfort during the initial recovery period, so listen to your body and make adjustments as necessary. If you find the elevated position uncomfortable after several hours, try repositioning your pillows for additional support or take a few deep breaths to relax. If you feel pain or discomfort that doesn’t improve, contact your healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and management. Always watch out for any unpleasant signs and symptoms, such as increased pain, bleeding, wound reopening, warmth, pus draining from the incision sites, fever, delayed wound healing, significant breast asymmetry, and changes in breast or nipple sensation.
Reasons to Choose Dr Norris for Breast Reduction Surgery in Sydney (Bondi Junction) and Bella Vista
Dr Benjamin Norris, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Sydney, provides breast reduction surgery at his clinic, Form & Face, with locations in Bondi Junction and Bella Vista. With over 20 years of training and experience, Dr Norris is well-equipped to address both functional and aesthetic concerns in breast reduction. His extensive qualifications, recognised by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and his fellowship in the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, reflect his commitment to maintaining high surgical standards and delivering carefully tailored procedures based on individual patient needs.
At Form & Face, Dr Norris conducts thorough consultations to assess each patient’s medical history, anatomical structure, and personal goals, ensuring a comprehensive approach to breast surgery. He provides clear, detailed explanations of the procedure, potential risks, and the expected recovery process, allowing patients to understand each stage involved. As part of his commitment to patient care, he includes specific instructions on how to sleep after breast surgery, advising on supportive sleep positions to manage post-surgical swelling and minimise strain on healing tissues.
In addition to post-operative sleep instructions, Dr Norris offers advice on other recovery aspects to support effective healing, such as wound care, scar management, and activity restrictions. Patients at Form & Face in Sydney receive guidance on creating a comfortable sleep environment and following structured aftercare steps that can aid in the recovery process. By regularly updating his knowledge through training and conferences, he ensures that patients receive care based on the latest advancements in breast reduction techniques.
Contact our team today to book your consultation at our Bondi Junction or Bella Vista locations!