How do you sleep after top surgery?

Plan to sleep on your back with several pillows to elevate the head of your bed. This is to lessen the amount of swelling you experience, which may worsen in the first few days after surgery before getting better. Plan to sleep on your back for the first 6 weeks after surgery while your chest heals.

How long do you have to sleep upright after top surgery?

Others may individualize this period of avoidance. Then, there may be those who have no guidelines. For my FTM and FTNB top surgery patients, the usual range of time that they are instructed to avoid laying fully on their side is around one to two months.

How long is bed rest after top surgery?

Recovery timeline

To ensure there's no added pressure or weight on the surgery site, you will have to sleep on your back for at least the first week after surgery. About 6 or 7 days after surgery, you will likely have your postoperative appointment.

How painful is top surgery recovery?

It's encouraged that pain medication is used when needed, but patients typically find that pain during recovery is very minimal and subsides after a couple of days. Apart from some pain, patients will experience slight discomfort from the swelling and bruising of the chest, but this can be managed with ice packs.

How long does it take to wake up from top surgery?

Most people feel up to resuming their normal activities a few days to a week after having top surgery. The initial post-operative visit usually takes place at around day seven.

Safe Sleeping Position After Top Surgery

Can your nipples fall off after top surgery?

Double Incision Procedure

The incision is then closed at the bottom of your pecs. In this procedure, there is a risk of losing all or part of the areola or nipple from the graft due to damage, but a skilled and experienced surgeon will be able to minimize these risks to the lowest possible amount.

Do you keep your nipples after top surgery?

During the surgery, the nipple remains intact; however the position of it is determined by the position on your breast. Its positioning cannot be changed or altered by the procedure. Because of this, it offers a better chance at preserving nipple and areola sensation, however this cannot be guaranteed.

Do top surgery drains hurt?

If you do opt for drains for double incision, remember that there are no extra incisions for the drainage tubes. Drains do not usually add any discomfort, and although it's 7 days of dealing with something annoying, it's well worth it for an expedited healing process.

How do you shower after top surgery?

Some surgeons say you can shower after 24 hours, but you should shower with your back to the shower head to protect your healing incisions from the direct spray of the water. Afterward, gently pat the chest dry and follow any instructions your surgeon has provided regarding ointments and dressings.

How long after top surgery can I move my arms?

In the first four to six weeks after having top surgery, you will need to make some adjustments. You will not be able to lift your arms above your head. You will also be told to restrict lifting, pulling, and other movements that strain the muscles and skin of the chest.

Why do you have to sleep on your back after top surgery?

This is normal healing. Plan to sleep on your back with several pillows to elevate the head of your bed. This is to lessen the amount of swelling you experience, which may worsen in the first few days after surgery before getting better.

What should I wear after top surgery?

Don't Forget to Pack...

Clothing: Zip-up hoodie; button-up shirts in large sizes (check out thrift shops); slip-on shoes, slippers; sweat pants or other comfortable clothes for lounging around in.

Is Top surgery major surgery?

Top surgery is major surgery, so it's important to discuss your health with your doctor. If you have other health conditions that make treatment unsafe, you might have to delay top surgery.

Can I lay on my stomach after top surgery?

Talk to your doctor about ways you can keep your body safe while sleeping in this position. In most cases, sleeping on your stomach after surgery is not advised. This position could compromise the health of your spine and put too much pressure on your hips or other areas of the body.

Can I wear deodorant after top surgery?

Do not shave or use deodorant for 1 week after your drains have been removed. You can shave and use deodorant after 1 week if your incisions have no open areas. For pain, take prescribed pain medication, Tylenol®, or ibuprofen every 4 to 6 hours as needed.

How soon after top surgery can I drive?

In this sense, once a patient feels comfortable to perform all the necessary aspects and duties of driving, they may consider doing so. For many individuals this occurs at approximately 10-14 days after surgery, although for some, depending on the nature of their operation and recovery, it may occur later.

How painful is FTM top surgery?

You may feel some pain for the first couple of days—especially when you move around or cough—and some discomfort for a week or more. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to lessen the pain.

How hard is top surgery recovery?

It may be 1-2 weeks before you'll feel comfortable returning to work or school. Those with more strenuous jobs involving physical labor may require as long as 4-6 weeks. Pushing yourself before you're ready can lead to setbacks in recovery.

What does it feel like after top surgery?

After surgery, there will be some bruising, swelling, and discomfort as there is with all types of surgery. Your chest will be bandaged and covered in a compression vest for support and to reduce inflammation. You should have filled antibiotic and pain meds before the procedure. Take them as prescribed during recovery.

What should I do before top surgery?

The Night Before Surgery

Don't eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before top surgery. Make sure you eat a balanced dinner and prepare to get as much sleep as possible. Although you may find it hard to sleep, do not take any sleeping pills. If you have hair on your chest, shave it.

How do you hide scars from top surgery?

Using silicon sheeting or compression tape is also effective way to treat scars because they create an atmosphere of moisture, which prevents the build-up of collagen that can cause scarring. Dr. Mosser or Dr. Facque will be able to recommend specific treatment based on your skin type.

How long cover nipples after top surgery?

How long after top surgery can I go to the beach?

Wait at least 6-8 weeks:

Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for your chest and when you will need to return for a follow-up for them to ensure that you are healing properly. Most physical activity can be resumed after 6-8 weeks, and swimming is no exception.

Can I go for a walk after top surgery?

Many surgeons will give the go-ahead for longer walks around 15 to 21 days after the operation. After about a month, most people undergoing top flattening surgery no longer have restrictions on walking.

What happens if you lift your arms after top surgery?

Lifting your elbows over your ears repeatedly can cause your scars to stretch, even if you're diligent with your scar care. To make sure your scars heal well, many surgeons advise waiting at least two or three months before raising your arms over your head.