How To Sleep After A Tummy Tuck
In this guide, we find out How To Sleep After A Tummy Tuck, why can’t you sleep on your side after a tummy tuck, What is the fastest way to recover from a tummy tuck, and How long do you sleep elevated after tummy tuck?
If you are contemplating a tummy tuck, you probably have several questions about the recovery stage. Most people, for example, want to know how to sleep after a tummy tuck without straining their incisions. Fortunately, there are many ways to comfortably rest after your tummy tuck without sleeping on your stomach or side. In this post, I’ll offer some tips for relaxing and sleeping after your procedure.
Sleep on Your Back
The best position to sleep after your tummy tuck is on your back. This position might be uncomfortable if you usually sleep on your side or stomach, but most patients get used to this position quickly. Sleeping on your stomach or side can strain your incisions and result in post-operative complications. If you have trouble sleeping on your back, try sleeping in a recliner. Recliners won’t allow you to move or roll over inadvertently while you’re sleeping, and they often make it easier to get up in the morning. You can also use pillows or rolled-up towels under your knees to support your lower back and around your sides to anchor your position and make you feel more comfortable.
Sleep With Your Upper Body Elevated
Along with sleeping on your back, it’s important to keep your head and upper body elevated when you sleep or rest. Elevating your upper body keeps your midsection in a slightly bent position, preventing strain on your incisions. Sleeping on propped-up pillows, a pillow wedge, or in a recliner are easy ways to keep your upper body elevated while you sleep. The length of time to sleep with your body elevated will depend on whether you have a mini tummy tuck or a full tummy tuck. After a full tummy tuck, you usually need to sleep with your head elevated for around 4 to 6 weeks. Most people with mini tummy tucks need to sleep elevated for 1 to 3 weeks.
How Long Do I Have To Sleep On My Back?
If sleeping on your back is not naturally comfortable, you will be eager to know when you can sleep in your usual position. Typically, you will need to sleep on your back anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks or longer. Your plastic surgeon will be the best guide on this subject. You should not resume sleeping on your stomach or side until your plastic surgeon says it’s OK. Sleeping on your stomach too soon can strain your incision and affect your tummy tuck results. Protecting your tummy tuck results with a few weeks of back-sleeping will be worth it, as you can see in some of our patients’ tummy tuck before and after photos.
How To Sleep After A Tummy Tuck
Did you recently have tummy tuck surgery? You probably realized it was quite invasive and the recovery process can be uncomfortable. Rest is an essential part of the healing process and not sleeping enough after an Omaha tummy tuck can impede your progress.
The struggle to find comfort in bed afterward is real! But don’t worry, there are steps that you can take to make sleeping after surgery easier.
In this article, we will provide tips and tricks on how to get a better night’s sleep in a comfortable position after having cosmetic surgery.
1. Sleep in the Right Position
It is important to sleep in a position that allows your stomach and abdomen to look natural and will dramatically reduce any discomfort or pain from sleeping. The best way to do this is with your head slightly elevated and both knees bent so your lower back is supported.
It’s common to ask why can you not sleep on your stomach after tummy tuck surgery, and the answer is that it puts too much pressure on your tummy tuck incision and can cause several pain. We know you might have a preferred sleeping position but it’s important to understand that to have successful healing progress after a major surgery you need to avoid certain sleeping positions.
Plastic surgeons commonly are asked when can I sleep on my side after a tummy tuck. Generally, you can start sleeping on your side after about two weeks post-surgery. But why not immediately? The reason why you can’t sleep on your side after a tummy tuck is that it creates too much tension in the surgical area and can be painful. Sleeping on your side after 3 or 5 weeks after the tummy tuck is even better.
In addition to sleeping in the right position, it is also important to ensure a comfortable recovery. To do this, you should avoid sitting up straight or standing for long periods as this can cause muscle tightening and impede blood circulation.
Instead, try reclining in a chair or lying down in a semi-reclined position with your head slightly elevated. This will help reduce any discomfort and pain from sleeping after surgery. Remember to avoid wrong positions such as sleeping on your stomach or side before consulting with your plastic surgeon is also essential for a successful recovery.
2. Use Pillows for Support
Placing a pillow behind your back can provide additional support as you sleep after having a surgical procedure such as a tummy tuck, allowing you to avoid any pressure or pain in the upper body.
Using extra pillows to support your body during tummy tuck recovery is a great way to ensure you get the restful sleep you need. Placing a pillow behind your back can help keep your upper body in an elevated position while placing one between your knees can help keep your lower back supported.
Additionally, sleeping in the fetal position may be beneficial as it helps reduce pressure on the incision site and allows for better circulation throughout the body. With these tips in mind, you should be able to find comfort and restful sleep after having a tummy tuck surgery.
3. Choose Soft Surfaces
If possible, avoid sleeping on hard beds or surfaces such as wooden bed frames which can cause more pressure points and make it difficult for you to get comfortable after rehabilitating from surgery.
It is important to remember that after a tummy tuck surgery, you may have excess skin and loose skin for several weeks. It is also important to keep in mind that the sleeping positions you choose can affect your blood flow and healing process. To ensure proper healing, it is best to sleep in positions that are comfortable and supportive of your body while avoiding any pressure points on the incision site.
Additionally, it is recommended to use extra pillows for support and opt for soft surfaces such as mattresses or couches when possible. With these tips in mind, you should be able to find comfort and restful sleep after having a tummy tuck Omaha.
4. Limit Movement During Sleep
There should be minimal movement during sleep to limit stress on the abdominal muscles and prevent further tissue damage after a tummy tuck surgery. It’s recommended that you should remain relatively still while you’re sleeping to enjoy maximum comfort without increasing the risk of injury or aggravation during restful periods of sleep.
It is also important to wear compression garments during the recovery period after an abdominoplasty. These garments help reduce swelling and provide support to the abdominal muscles, allowing for a faster recovery.
It is recommended that you avoid sleeping on your stomach or side for at least two weeks after this cosmetic procedure, as this can put too much pressure on the incision site and cause pain. It is best to sleep in positions that allow your stomach and abdomen to look natural and will dramatically reduce any discomfort or pain from sleeping. With these tips in mind, you should be able to get a better night’s sleep during your tummy tuck recovery period.
5. Avoid Crossing Your Legs/Arms
Crossing your legs/arms when sleeping could cause uneasiness around your midsection, so keep them drawn away from the central part of your body at all times when resting or sleeping post-surgery for alleviated comfort throughout the nighttime hours.
Another way to ensure a comfortable and restful sleep after a tummy tuck procedure is to find a seated position that is comfortable for you. This can be done by propping yourself up with pillows or using an adjustable bed frame. Additionally, leg exercises can help improve circulation and reduce swelling in the abdominal area, which can make it easier to find a comfortable sleeping position. With these tips in mind, you should be able to get the restful sleep you need during your recovery period after a abdominoplasty.
6. Take Comforting Medication
If you are feeling pain or discomfort while attempting to take rest after abdominoplasty Omaha, try taking some pain medications such as Ibuprofen (or other anti-inflammatories) before going off to bed if necessary, but just be sure not to exceed dosages prescribed by a doctor beforehand if possible!
7. Follow Schedules for Medicines/Rest
Lastly, it is strongly advised that individuals who have had abdominoplasty should follow strict schedules before heading off into dreamland in regards to physical activity and dosing up on appropriate medicines to guarantee an enjoyable evening’s break with minimum hassle!
After a few weeks of recovery time, it is important to start transitioning back into a normal sleeping position. This will help the body to naturally heal and reduce any discomfort from the tummy tuck surgery. It is recommended that you sleep on your back with your legs slightly elevated to reduce swelling and promote circulation.
You should avoid crossing your arms or legs while sleeping as this can cause uneasiness around the midsection as we mentioned before. With these tips in mind, you should be able to get a restful night’s sleep during the recovery period after a tummy tuck procedure and aid in the natural healing process.
Additional advice for tummy tuck recovery
It is important to avoid strenuous activities during the tummy tuck recovery process, as this can cause further damage to the abdominal muscles and incision site. Additionally, it is important to wait at least six weeks before engaging in any sexual activities after abdominoplasty surgery. This will ensure that your body has had enough time to heal properly and reduce the risk of any complications or pain. Following these tips will help ensure a successful and comfortable recovery from your tummy tuck Omaha NE.
Take extra precautions during the recovery period after abdominoplasty surgery. This includes wearing compression clothing, which helps reduce swelling and provides support to the abdominal muscles. Additionally, it is important to keep an eye out for any signs of infection or risk of blood clots, as well as regularly change your surgical dressing and drain tubes every couple of weeks. It is also important to maintain a healthy daily routine during this time to ensure that you are getting enough rest and allowing your body to heal properly.
why can’t you sleep on your side after a tummy tuck
If you’re considering having a tummy tuck, there are a number of things you need to know before you lie on the operating table. Your pre and aftercare routines may be very specific and prescribed by your doctor. Part of that routine will be changing the way you sleep.
If you’re a side sleeper interested in getting a tummy tuck, be prepared to change positions. Here’s why, and how SONU can help you rest comfortably.
When Will I Be Able To Sleep on My Side Again?
Unless your doctor tells you that you can sleep in the modified side position mentioned earlier, you can expect to sleep on your back for several weeks. You can resume sleeping on your side once your incision has healed, under the instruction of your doctor.
If you are still experiencing pain when making minimal movements, your doctor may tell you to keep sleeping on your back until it subsides.
The SONU Sleep System can help make side sleeping more comfortable as you recover from your surgery. The SONU mattress features a plush top layer of serene foam that offers sink-in support and spine alignment, helping you wake up feeling rested and refreshed — not sore.
The patented Comfort Channel allows side sleepers to fully immerse their arms and shoulders into the bed, enjoying full range of motion and pressure relief.
If you are ready to sleep comfortably, even while recovering, consider the SONU Sleep System.
How Should I Prepare for a Tummy Tuck?
Your doctor will tell you everything you need to do to prepare for tummy tuck surgery. Some of these involve making changes to your lifestyle.
Practice Sleeping on Your Back
After your surgery, it’s recommended that you sleep on your back. However, in some cases, it’s okay to sleep on your side in a modified position with pillows under your knees. The pillows help keep pressure off of your stomach muscles, which will likely be quite sore during recovery.
To prepare, practice sleeping on your back a week or two before your surgery. If you aren’t used to sleeping this way, it might feel uncomfortable at first. The worst thing you could do is wait until the last minute to practice sleeping in a recovery position that you aren’t used to.
Enlist Help
You’re going to need help after your surgery. Enlist some friends or family in advance to help you and work out a schedule.
Someone may need to stay with you for a few days after your surgery, so figure out who that should be before the day of the procedure. This person can help make sure your needs are taken care of while you are recovering immediately after the procedure.
After a tummy tuck, you will likely need help in ways that you might not initially think of. For example, you won’t be able to drive for up to two weeks after surgery. Who will drive you to appointments? Will you feel comfortable taking a taxi or rideshare?
It will be hard to move around for a while after your surgery. Movements we take for granted, like bending, walking, standing, and lifting, will probably all be a bit more difficult for you. Someone may have to help you move around and do most of the lifting on your behalf.
If you have children, find a caretaker that can keep your kids for a few weeks or come take care of them in your home. This can be a family member, close friend, or former partner.
Stock Up Your Fridge
Your doctor will probably tell you to eat light foods after your surgery. Changing your diet before your procedure can help take away some of the shock factor (or displeasure) you may feel from changing your eating habits.
What Should I Expect Post Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tuck recovery can be gruesome. You, your doctor, and your support system should all be prepared for what’s to come.
Scarring
As with most cosmetic procedures, you can expect to see a scar after your tummy tuck. The incision site will have stitches. The initial appearance of the scar might make you question your choice, but the right scar treatment will reduce the appearance of your scar over time.
Drainage
One part of cosmetic surgeries like tummy tucks that people don’t expect is drainage. Your surgeon will insert small tubes in your abdomen to drain fluids that collect around your incision. These drains will remain in place for several weeks. You or your caretaker are going to need to empty them multiple times per day. Your doctor or nurse will show you how to do this before you are discharged.
Bandages
Your surgical incisions will be covered with bandages and you’ll need to wear compression garments to support you in recovery. You’ll have to wear compression garments all the time, except when you bathe, of course. Some patients are allowed to stop wearing them a couple of weeks after their drain tubes have been removed; sometimes, they have to wear them a little bit longer.
Bathing
If you are a bath fan, you may be disappointed. You will not be allowed to take a bath or get in a hot tub after your procedure. You can begin taking showers a few days after you’re discharged. You may be instructed to use gentle, unscented soap so your incision will not become irritated.
Hopefully, after reading this article, you feel more informed about your tummy tuck recovery process and sleep positions. If you are about to undergo a tummy tuck or other surgical procedure, and you want to come home to a bed that relieves pressure from your aching body, you’ll want to try the SONU Sleep System.
SONU has surpassed the traditional flat-mattress design and created a bed that provides relief to your neck and shoulders, areas that other mattresses ignore.
What is the fastest way to recover from a tummy tuck
One of the most important pieces of advice post-operation is, “don’t overdo it.” Your body needs time to rest in order to heal properly. Not only will you be able to notice your results much more quickly, you’ll also end up with less visible scarring over the long term. Here are some necessary steps in your healing process:
Focus on Your Intake
Give your injury response system a healthy foundation to work with. Eat only nutritionally balanced meals, including vitamin C-rich foods, which can help your body heal faster. Staying hydrated is of paramount importance, too. Drink several glasses of water a day, avoiding beverages that contain sugar and caffeine. Smoking and drinking alcohol should be cut out of your routine entirely as you recover, since both activities impact your blood vessels, which can cause unwanted complications after surgery.
Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
Above all else, listen to what your plastic surgeon tells you. Every patient is unique, and your doctor will outline a recovery plan based on your specific medical history and lifestyle. A board-certified plastic surgeon will be able to guide you through recovery after your tummy tuck surgery. Always keep the lines of communication open, and if you have any questions or concerns as you heal, your doctor is only a phone call away.
How long do you sleep elevated after tummy tuck
Recovering from tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, takes rest and relaxation.
Plenty of sleep is one of the best things you can do to get your body back to firing on all cylinders. Sleeping is an essential human function and something that many people don’t get enough of. Fortunately, recovering from a tummy tuck is the perfect time to catch up on some much-needed Z’s.
Here, the expert team of plastic surgeons at Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg tell you just how you should sleep while recovering from abdominoplasty and how long you should maintain these positions while allowing your body to heal.
Benefits of Sleep
Research has shown time and again that sleep is vital for both mind and body. Most people need at least eight hours a night, with highly active people sometimes needing nine to ten hours to recharge properly. Getting too few hours of sleep a night will inhibit brain function, reduce memory capacity, and suppress the immune system’s ability to fight off infection.
Conversely, a well-rested individual will experience higher-functioning memory and a faster recovery rate from invasive procedures such as tummy tucks, due to the body’s immune system functioning at full capacity.
So, as you recover from abdominoplasty, don’t be afraid to snooze that alarm clock. In fact, don’t even set it. Just sleep.
But, be sure to sleep in the correct position.
Tucked Tummy Sleeping Posture
While recovering from abdominoplasty, your body needs to seal the incisions made by your surgeon. The best way to do this is to ensure you place no pressure or strain on the sutures, which means keeping your abdomen tucked in and relaxed.
While you sleep, elevate your head, neck, and knees. Use plenty of quality pillows, so that you curl similar to a hedgehog sleeping on it’s back. This position will protect your sutures and incisions and encourage rapid healing. Most find that sleeping in a recliner is the easiest way to stay in this position.
I Like Sleeping on by Belly – How Long Will I Have to Sleep Like This?
Patients recovering from tummy tuck surgery will need to sleep in this protective slight-curl for four to six weeks following surgery. This might be longer if patients have opted for joint operations, such as mommy makeovers or breast lifts, but generally, six weeks is a good benchmark healing time. This gives the body time to properly heal incisions without hindrance needing to revise any of the sutures. Many patients also choose to “practice” sleeping like this leading up to surgery, so that they are accustomed to these new sleeping positions.
Make Yourself Comfortable
As you recover from your tummy tuck, take the time to pamper yourself. Arrange your living room with plenty of pillows and bean bags to facilitate comfortable sitting and lying. Prepare plenty of movies, tv-series, and books to read. Also, be sure to fill the fridge with pre-made meals and healthy snacks to graze on throughout the day, which will provide your body with the vitamins and nutrients it needs to recover quickly.