Sleeping after surgery can be difficult, and doing so after a lipo 360 procedure can present some challenges since the surgery affects your front, back, and sides. There are a few ways you can help yourself, however, and taking your pain medication as prescribed is one of the most important. Taking your medication as directed will help you stay ahead of any pain that could otherwise keep you awake at night. It’s also important to eat a high-fiber diet. Prescription pain medication can cause constipation, and that can be uncomfortable. The bloating and cramping of constipation can make it difficult to sleep even when you’re keeping your pain under control. Follow your surgeon’s instructions and wear your compression garment while you sleep. Doing so will provide support to your midsection and keep everything in position while you sleep. This will ultimately make you more comfortable. Use soft, comfortable bedding to avoid irritating the treated areas. Ensure your bedroom is kept at a comfortable temperature to avoid overheating, which can increase swelling and discomfort.
After lipo 360, it is generally recommended that you sleep on your back with your upper body slightly elevated. This position helps reduce swelling and prevents putting pressure on the treated areas. Prop yourself on pillows to support your back and keep your upper body elevated. Placing pillows under your knees can also help reduce strain on your lower back and help you maintain a comfortable position.
You should avoid sleeping on your stomach after your lipo 360 procedure. Doing so can put undue pressure on the areas treated by liposuction, potentially causing discomfort, increasing swelling, and interfering with the healing process. Stomach seeing can also put pressure on any abdominal sutures, which are common after the procedure.
If you’re a side sleeper, sleeping on your side after a lipo 360 procedure can be more comfortable than sleeping on your back, but it’s essential to take precautions to ensure it doesn’t interfere with your healing process. Unless your surgeon says otherwise, it’s generally best to wait about two weeks after surgery before transitioning back to side sleeping. When you do transition to your side, place a pillow between your knees to align your spine and another under your torso to reduce pressure on the treated areas. Make sure that the areas treated with liposuction are not under direct pressure. Adjust your position with pillows to distribute your weight evenly. Listen to your body and pay attention to any signs of discomfort or increased swelling. If side sleeping causes pain or discomfort, switch back to sleeping on your back until you are further along in your lipo 360 recovery. You can also try different pillow arrangements.