Why Rest Is Necessary for Better Plastic Surgery Recovery

Cosmetic surgery involves surgical procedures designed to help improve your appearance and address areas of concern, giving you confidence in your appearance and feeling your very best. While the surgeon and the specific surgical procedure are critical to your outcome, your plastic surgery recovery is just as important. One crucial aspect of that recovery is sleep. Sleep not only plays a vital role in your overall health, but getting enough sleep after plastic surgery helps to promote faster healing and better outcomes.

How Sleep Affects Your Recovery

Quality sleep is an essential part of your plastic surgery recovery. Sleep is essential for both your physical and mental health and, during recovery, it is even more important. After plastic surgery, sleep aids in recovery by:

• Helping to reduce inflammation – While an inflammatory response from the body is necessary for healing, it can also contribute to swelling and discomfort. Sleep helps reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Pain reduction – During sleep, the body produces endorphins which can help alleviate pain while also promoting healing. A lack of sleep can actually increase your sensitivity to pain during recovery.
• Boosts immune system – A healthy immune system is necessary during recovery in order to help fight infection and promote healing.
• Promotes collagen production – Collagen is a natural protein in the body and is critical for the skin during the healing process. Your body produces more collagen during sleep, making sleep vital for the healing process.

Sleep Positions Matter

Depending on your specific procedures, your surgeon is likely to recommend specific sleeping positions, especially for the first few days of recovery. For example, if you had a facial procedure, such as rhinoplasty, your surgeon will recommend sleeping in an elevated position in order to promote better healing. For breast augmentation, sleeping on your back with supportive pillows and an inclined position helps reduce the risk of rolling over onto your stomach while also making it easier to get out of bed. Following the advice of your surgeon when it comes to sleeping will help promote better healing and reduce the risk of complications. For tips to help you sleep after plastic surgery, click here. 

Sleep plays a vital role in plastic surgery recovery and can make a difference in your final results. To learn more about what to expect during your recovery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Martin and his caring team at 575-521-7111 today.