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Post-gastric sleeve surgery is a huge leap towards weight loss and a healthier lifestyle. Although the process helps to reduce the size of the stomach and food intakes, the post-operation period tends to pose a number of challenges that require attention and patience. Among the most frequent questions patients are going to include: Can I sleep after gastric sleeve surgery? The answer is yes, but you should be attentive towards your sleeping positions and habits in order to make the healing process easy and comfortable.
Sleeping Positions After Gastric Sleeve
Sleeping is possible after gastric sleeves, although your body requires some time to adjust to it. The first few days of it are painful and uncomfortable when lying on your stomach, or bending your body. Lying on your back with the upper part of your body elevated slightly would be considered to be the safest position. The patients have an additional pillow or a recliner chair to ease the stomach pressure and make sleep more comfortable.
Most surgeons usually suggest a four to six weeks delay to sleep on your stomach.This gives the incisions and inner stitches time to heal well. It is painful to sleep on your stomach too quickly, which may slow down the process and even stress the healing tissues. To be on the safer side, never resume your usual routine of sleep without consulting your surgeon.
Trouble Sleeping After Surgery
Sleeping difficulties post-gastric sleeve are quite a normal occurrence and there is no reason to panic in case you are experiencing it. Even the after-effects of anesthesia may upset your sleep, as well as discomfort after the surgery, changes in your body, and so on. Pain medication, bloating, or adjusting to smaller food portions may also cause insomnia. In order to rest better, establish a relaxing sleeping condition, do not consume caffeine too late or in the afternoon, do some light exercises to relax your body.
Side Sleeping After Gastric Sleeve
A common question posed by a lot of patients is whether they can sleep on their side. However, after two weeks, assuming the healing progresses, it is safe to sleep on the left side in the overwhelming majority of cases. Sleeping on the left side aids digestion and helps reduce acid reflux, a common issue after gastric procedures. After several weeks, when swelling and pain have reduced, the right hand also feels comfortable. Some favour the right side, and whatever one may do, have a pillow to aid you, and never ignore your body.
Things to Avoid After Gastric Sleeve
Postoperative restrictions are also some restrictions that are worth adhering to. Do not lift heavy items for 4–6 weeks to prevent stress on healing areas. Avoid large meals, carbonated drinks, and strenuous exertion until your doctor gives clear approval. Never sleep on your stomach during the early weeks, as it may damage the fresh incisions.
Other Recovery Concerns
- Recovery is rather the same in case you have a gastric bypass rather than a sleeve. Most patients can try side sleeping after 2–3 weeks if comfortable and surgeon-approved.
- Driving is another concern. Most patients can drive within 1–2 weeks if off painkillers and moving comfortably. Begin with short journeys to make sure that you are able to brake, turn, and react without feeling pain.
- Most patients achieve good outcomes by following their surgeon’s advice, though complications may sometimes occur. Lifestyle changes, diet, and patience form the key to success. You should contact your doctor or a support group in case you are discouraged.
Cost of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Islamabad
The cost of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Islamabad typically ranges from PKR 500,000 to PKR 750,000, depending on the patient’s health status, hospital stay, and post-op care requirements. To know more about the cost, consult our team.
Final Thoughts
Hence, can you sleep after gastric sleeve surgery? Yes, but then it must be taken care of. Lie on your back with a slight raise on the upper part of the body. After 2-3 weeks, you can change to side sleeping but not stomach sleeping till 4-6 weeks. To have a painless recovery and the benefits of surgery that last, it is best to eat like your surgeon, stay on a healthy diet, and avoid taking risks. When you think of doing this surgery in Islamabad, Pakistan, visit Slimthetics and get the best treatment in the hands of our famous surgeon Dr Tanseer Asghar.
