How to Sleep Comfortably After a Mommy Makeover

Sleep is one of the primary recommendations plastic surgeons make for optimal surgical recovery. After having an operation on any part of the body, this may sound easier said than done. Rest is crucial to physical healing, but can be a challenge, especially after surgery on the midsection or breasts. Many women interested in a Mommy Makeover harbor concern about how they will manage to sleep when they are bound to be somewhat uncomfortable after surgery. As much as we wish we had a perfect answer for every patient, we don’t. That said, we do have some tips that might help.

Sleep for the Mommy Makeover Patient

Most people describe themselves as side- or stomach-sleepers. Some go back and forth between these two positions. Due to the areas of sutures after a Mommy Makeover, these positions may not be comfortable. If at all possible, we want to reduce the amount of shifting the recovering patient has to do while they are trying to sleep. Wearing compression garments can be slightly helpful. A few other tips may also be tried.

Sleep Reclined

It can be difficult to lie flat after a Mommy Makeover because the abdominal muscles are tight and sore. Sleeping in a reclined position may be the most comfortable, especially during the first week of recovery. If you have a recliner, this is an easy way to sleep. Still, you may want to place soft pillows around you so you can stay in the reclined position for several hours of rest without any areas of the body getting stiff or sore. Another way to sleep reclined is to use a wedge pillow or stack of pillows to elevate the upper body in bed. Whatever the technique, extra pillows can make a big difference in stability and comfort.

Lie Flat on the Back

We just said this can be difficult, didn’t we? Yes. But it might be manageable. If you want to try sleeping on your back after your Mommy Makeover, pillows are once again your greatest resource. To support the tightened midsection, you may place a few pillows under your knees, and also at your sides. Some patients find it comfortable to rest their arms on soft pillows as well.

Promoting Adequate Sleep

Sleeping position is only one aspect of promoting quality sleep during surgical recovery. While the body relies on extra sleep and rest for optimal healing, this must be offset with small periods of physical activity during the day. Patients may walk around the house slowly and carefully during their first days of recovery to release pent-up energy from the body. These small bouts of movement can go a long way to support sleep. Finally, stimulating foods and drinks should be avoided. Examples include caffeine, sugar, and even alcohol, which can have a rebound-type effect that disrupts sleep in the middle of the night.

A Mommy Makeover is a great way to address the various concerns that occur with motherhood and age. To schedule a consultation, contact our Reno office at (775) 826-4477.