Tummy tuck or abdominoplasty in Sydney is an effective option for removing unwanted excess skin from your abdomen area when diet and exercise fail. However, as a significant surgical procedure, it can impact your sitting, standing, and, most importantly, sleeping.
There are multiple benefits to getting a tummy tuck, but not sleeping enough after this extensive surgery can impede your progress.
It’s really hard to feel comfortable in bed afterwards! However, don’t worry, as there are measures you can implement to facilitate sleeping post-operation. This article will offer advice on how to achieve a more restful night’s sleep in a comfortable position.
Use Recliner
There are several reasons why recliners are perfect for people recovering from abdominoplasty.
- Generally, individuals refer to sleeping on their side or stomach. Is this the right posture after abdominoplasty? A big no!! You must lie in a slightly bent position that avoids pulling on the stitching. A recliner allows you to rest in a comfortable and secure position, preserving a slight curve in your body’s midsection.
- A recliner has full control over how much you bend your body while relaxing. You will be able to change between different perspectives until you find the perfect one.
- Resting in a tilted position aids in the healing of your wounds while minimising strain on your stomach. We suggest sleeping with your upper body elevated for three to four weeks post-surgery, varying based on the extent of the correction done.
- Conventional abdominoplasty surgeries that involve long incisions along your pelvis may necessitate resting in a recliner for four weeks to promote healing. Nevertheless, individuals who undergo mini tummy tucks in Sydney may require less time in a recliner due to the shorter and less complex incisions.
Your Position While Sleeping on Bed
Even if you prefer your bed for comfort, you need to sleep in a bent position to get proper rest while minimising pressure on the incision. This can be achieved by using either multiple pillows or medical-grade contoured pillows. These tips will assist in positioning your body to minimise abdominal strain and lower the chances of suture rupture.
When getting out of bed, pay particular attention to the shape of your body. Ideally, you should aim to keep a bent or jackknifed body shape during the procedure to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the stitching.
Wear Compression Garments
One of the most noticeable advantages of abdominoplasty is the development of firmer and more toned stomach muscles. Using compression garments on your midsection while recovering helps provide the necessary support to the abdominal wall.
Whatever you choose, ensure it provides the right level of compression without discomfort in the abdomen. Moreover, applying pressure to abdominal incisions can help reduce swelling and inflammation while accelerating the healing process.
Establish a Sleep Schedule
A consistent sleep routine is a great way to ensure peaceful nights while recovering from a tummy tuck. The pressure of recovering from a major operation will result in inflammation, making it more challenging to unwind or rest during the night. Nevertheless, setting a regular bedtime helps train your body and mind for a restful night’s sleep.
Your Diet and Sleep
Adopt a healthy diet during the recovery period, as it plays a significant role in the process.
- Consume green tea to strengthen your immune system.
- Consume foods high in fibre to help with digestion and make bowel movements easier.
- Eat pineapples to decrease inflammation.
- Consume probiotics, such as yoghurt.
- Candied ginger or ginger tea for alleviating nausea.
Final Takeaways
A tummy tuck is an invasive surgery that causes bruising, swelling, and significant discomfort. Sometimes, the recovery process may lead to increased feelings of anxiety, causing issues with sleep such as insomnia or restlessness the whole night.
However, sleeping in a bent or jackknife posture, ideally lying on your back, can offer the needed comfort to achieve uninterrupted sweet dreams. Moreover, using a recliner, taking pain medication as prescribed, wearing compression garments, and sleeping on a suitable mattress can also lower inflammation levels to improve sleep quality.
