“If you want to recover more quickly after breast augmentation surgery, be sure you’re getting enough sleep,” Dr Norris tells patients at Form and Face. “You just need to be careful about the position you choose.”

6 Ways Sleep Helps You Heal after Implants

When your head hits the pillow at bedtime, your body’s “night crew” gets to work. While you dream,

Hormones are released that encourage tissue growth
White bloods cells that fight infection are produced
Blood pressure is lowered by as much as seven points
The liver switches from detoxify mode to build/synthesize mode
Less adrenaline is present in the system
Stress hormones are lowered which can help curb inflammation

“A good night’s sleep also helps regulate your hunger hormones,” observes Dr Norris. “This doesn’t have anything specific to do with healing, but it is a nice side benefit of getting 7-8 hours of good sleep.”

Do’s & Don’ts for Safe Sleeping after Breast Surgery

Losing sleep throughout the night is unpleasant and unhealthy, so here are Dr Norris’ tips to help you get a good night’s sleep for the first 3-6 weeks following boob job surgery.

Do lie on your back, but don’t lie flat – Use bed pillows or specially designed wedge pillows to keep the body elevated from 25 to 45 degrees. “Doing so helps relieve pressure on the implants,” explains Dr Norris. “It also helps minimise chest swelling.”
Don’t lie on your stomach – After breast augmentation surgery, your body needs time for a scar capsule to form around the implant. “Lying on your back lowers the risk of deformation that can be caused by sleeping on the implants,” reports Dr Norris.
Don’t lie on your side – Gravity can pull at newly placed implants, causing them to droop and develop inconsistencies.
Do use pillows against your side – “Surrounding yourself with pillows will help you keep from unconsciously rolling into a different position while you’re asleep,” says Dr Norris.
Do wear a sports or compression bra – These special bras are designed to reduce pressure and swelling. They also ensure that the implants stay put while during the healing phase.
Try a recliner – Women who have trouble getting a good night’s sleep in bed, may prefer the more upright position offered by a recliner. “The advantage of a recliner is that it supports your neck,” says Dr Norris.

Sleep Easy Before & After Breast Implant Surgery

Sleeping in a new position after breast augmentation can be challenging. It’s unfamiliar and it can lead to lower backache and shoulder and neck pain. Dr Norris is keenly aware of this fact and counsels his patients on the best way to get the healing rest they need. If you have questions about sleep, recovery, or any aspect of breast enhancement procedures, we invite you to contact the friendly team at Form and Face on 02 9387 3800, or use our online enquiry form. Sweet dreams.