When Can I Sleep on My Side After Breast Augmentation? Your Post-Op FAQ

Woman (model) peacefully sleeping on her side in bed.

If you’re considering breast augmentation surgery, you probably have questions about each phase of your surgical journey, including the recovery process. Patients often wonder, “When can I sleep on my side after breast augmentation?” or find themselves unsure about what to wear after their procedure. These questions are perfectly normal! Understanding what to expect post-op can ease your anxiety and help you recover more safely and smoothly.

While every patient’s breast augmentation procedure and recovery is unique, here are common questions and answers about what to expect following your procedure.

Before & After Breast Augmentation Case 83 View #1 View in Kalispell, MT
Before & After Breast Augmentation
Before & After Breast Augmentation Case 147 Left Side View in Kalispell, MT
Before & After Breast Augmentation
Before & After Breast Augmentation Case 109 Front View in Kalispell, MT
Before & After Breast Augmentation
Before & After Breast Augmentation Case 18 View #1 View in Kalispell, MT
Before & After Breast Augmentation

When Can I Sleep On My Side After Breast Augmentation?

Studies show that getting a good night’s sleep helps the body heal faster. But, after breast augmentation, you will need to change how you sleep during your initial recovery. For the first few weeks, it’s essential to sleep on your back with your upper body elevated.

This position promotes blood flow and reduces the risk of putting too much pressure on your implants and incisions. Sleeping in a recliner is suggested if you have access to one. You can usually transition to sleeping on your side after roughly 6 weeks.

How Long After Breast Augmentation Can I Drive?

Most patients can resume driving 1 to 2 weeks post-op. You will be cleared to drive once you have sufficiently regained your range of motion and are completely off all prescribed pain medications.

How Long After Breast Augmentation Can I Work Out?

Usually, you are able to engage in light exercise 2 weeks after your procedure. After about 4 weeks, patients can return to running and regular workouts. You can resume more strenuous workouts around 6 weeks post-op, though your plastic surgeon will advise you on your unique case.

What Should I Wear After Breast Augmentation?

The general rule about what to wear after breast augmentation is that it should be loose and comfortable to facilitate the healing process. We recommend wearing a surgical bra during the first 3 to 6 weeks of recovery to provide support and minimize swelling. You should avoid bras with underwire for 6 to 8 weeks. This blog post offers more tips about bra shopping after breast augmentation.

How Long Should I Take Off Work After Breast Augmentation?

We typically recommend taking 3 to 5 days off from work following surgery. You may need to extend your time off slightly if your procedure includes a breast lift or if your job requires physical exertion.

Before & After Breast Lift with Augmentation Case 45 View #1 View in Kalispell, MT
Before & After Breast Lift with Augmentation
Before & After Breast Lift with Augmentation Case 46 View #1 View in Kalispell, MT
Before & After Breast Lift with Augmentation
Before & After Breast Lift with Augmentation Case 95 Right Oblique View in Kalispell, MT
Before & After Breast Lift with Augmentation

How Long After Breast Augmentation Can I Swim?

You can break out your swimsuit about 3 to 4 weeks post-op. It’s essential to wait until your incisions are completely healed before fully submerging yourself. Also, pat your incisions dry after swimming to minimize the risk of infection.

Knowing what to expect and preparing for your breast augmentation recovery can help facilitate healing and enhance your results. Remember, we’re always available to address your plastic surgery questions and concerns.

We encourage you to view our before and after gallery featuring breast augmentation results. Then, request a consultation using our online form or call us at (406) 609-0210 to schedule an appointment.

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