Resting After Lipo: Should You Sleep Through Recovery?

Sleep is crucial to the recovery process after liposuction. It is recommended that you sleep on your back for at least the first two weeks after surgery, with your upper body slightly elevated to help reduce swelling and prevent pressure on the treated areas. A recliner is ideal for this sleeping position, but if you don't have one, you can use pillows to support your body. Compression garments should also be worn during sleep to aid in the healing process. While it may be tempting to sleep on your side or stomach, doing so too soon can interfere with the healing process and cause discomfort.

Sleeping positions

• It is recommended to sleep on your back for the first two to three weeks after liposuction. Sleeping on your back helps to reduce swelling and prevents putting pressure on the treated areas. Prop yourself on pillows to support your back and keep your upper body slightly elevated.
• Avoid sleeping on your stomach, especially during the initial recovery phase. Sleeping on your stomach can put undue pressure on the treated areas, causing discomfort, increasing swelling, and interfering with the healing process. It can also put pressure on any abdominal sutures.
• If you are a side sleeper, it is generally best to wait about two weeks before transitioning to side sleeping. When you do, place a pillow between your knees to align your spine and another under your torso to reduce pressure on the treated areas. Make sure the liposuction-treated areas are not under direct pressure, and adjust your position with pillows to distribute your weight evenly.
• If side sleeping causes pain or discomfort, switch back to sleeping on your back until you are further along in your recovery.
• If you have a recliner, use it during the first few days after surgery. A recliner will hold your body in a comfortable position, slightly elevating your head while keeping your knees and buttocks down, and preventing you from rolling around, which can strain incisions.
• Use pillows to support the areas that have been through liposuction. Fluffy pillows can enhance comfort and support the areas with incisions.
• Depending on the surgical area, your surgeon may advise sleeping on your front or side after the initial recovery period, once the pain and swelling have subsided.

Remember, getting proper sleep and rest is essential for your body's healing process.

Pain management

Medication

Pain medications are essential for managing discomfort and promoting healing. It is important to take your prescribed medication as directed by your doctor to stay ahead of the pain. Over-the-counter medications like Tylenol (acetaminophen) are often sufficient for pain management after liposuction with local anesthesia. However, liposuction under general anesthesia typically requires prescription pain medication, including narcotic analgesics.

Compression Garments

Compression garments or elastic bandages are provided by your surgeon to be worn during the recovery process. These garments help reduce swelling, provide support, and relieve pain in the treated areas. They should be worn diligently, as instructed, to aid in healing and reduce discomfort.

Sleep Position

Sleeping on your back in an elevated position is recommended for at least the first two weeks after liposuction. This position helps reduce swelling and prevents pressure on the treated areas. Using pillows to support your back and elevate your upper body is suggested. Placing pillows under your knees can also reduce strain on your lower back.

Recliner

If you have a recliner, it can be beneficial to sleep in it during the initial days after surgery. A recliner holds the body in a comfortable position and prevents rolling around, which can strain incisions. It also makes it easier to get up and down.

Relaxation Techniques

Anxiety, tiredness, and lack of sleep can prolong the healing process. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and light exercise like walking can help you sleep better. Try these techniques a few hours before bedtime.

Diet

A high-fibre diet is recommended as prescription pain medication can cause constipation, which can be uncomfortable and make sleeping difficult. Additionally, caffeine, high-fat foods, heavy meals, and hard-to-digest foods should be avoided before sleep.

Environment

A peaceful and cool bedroom environment can enhance proper sleep after liposuction. Avoid noise, light, and high temperatures when preparing to sleep.

Compression garments

When to Wear Compression Garments

You will be advised to wear compression garments 24 hours a day, including while sleeping, immediately after your liposuction surgery. This is to ensure that your skin heals properly and to reduce swelling. Your surgeon may recommend wearing compression garments for at least 3 months after the procedure.

Types of Compression Garments

• Recovery girdles
• Shapers
• Girdles with high backs
• Girdles with suspenders
• Zipperless girdles
• Body shapers
• Abdominal binders
• Compression boards
• Compression sheets
• Arm compression sleeves
• Compression rollers

Where to Buy Compression Garments

Rest and recovery

To aid healing, it is crucial to wear the provided compression garments or bandages diligently, as they help reduce swelling and contour the body. These should be worn day and night for the first six months to achieve optimal results. Additionally, light walking is encouraged to promote blood flow and prevent blood clots, but strenuous activities should be avoided for at least the first six weeks.

For the first three weeks after surgery, it is recommended to sleep at an incline, with your head and knees elevated. Sleeping on your back with a recliner or pillows is ideal, as it prevents rolling onto your sides or stomach, which can strain incisions. Side sleeping may be possible after the first two weeks, but it is important to ensure that the liposuction sites are not under direct pressure.

Proper nutrition is also vital for healing. Eat a healthy diet rich in protein, high-fibre fruits, and vegetables, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Avoid salty foods and sugary drinks, as these can worsen swelling.

Overall, giving your body adequate rest and following your surgeon's instructions for recovery will help ensure a smooth healing process after liposuction.

Relaxation techniques

After liposuction, your body needs rest to heal. However, getting a good night's sleep can be challenging due to incisions, tenderness, bruising, and swelling from the surgery. Here are some relaxation techniques to help you sleep better during your liposuction recovery:

• Deep breathing exercises: Taking deep breaths can help calm your mind and body, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
• Meditation: Meditation is a powerful tool to quiet your mind and ease stress and anxiety. You can try guided meditation or practice on your own in a quiet, comfortable space.
• Guided imagery: This technique involves visualizing calming scenes, places, or experiences in your mind. It can help distract your mind from worries and promote a sense of peace and relaxation.
• Exercise: Gentle exercises, such as walking, are recommended during the day. They can improve your circulation, prevent blood clots, and tire your body, making it easier to fall asleep at night.
• Comfortable environment: Create a peaceful and comfortable sleep environment. Ensure your bedroom is quiet, with a cool temperature of around 65°F (20°C). Avoid noise, light, and high temperatures when trying to sleep.
• Pillows: Use pillows to support your body and enhance your comfort. Wedge-shaped and U-shaped pillows can help position your body comfortably and reduce strain.
• Compression garments: Wear the compression garments provided by your doctor as instructed. They help reduce swelling and promote skin contraction, aiding the healing process.
• Healthy diet: Eat a high-fibre diet and avoid caffeine, high-fat foods, and heavy meals before bed. Stimulants and hard-to-digest foods can disrupt your sleep.
• Pain management: Take your prescribed pain medications as directed to stay ahead of any discomfort. If you think your medication is affecting your sleep, consult your doctor about alternative options or adjustments to dosage or timing.

Frequently asked questions