Sleep is where most people worry they will undo the surgery, and it is a fair concern: you are unconscious for eight hours next to a pillow, with grafts that are not yet secure. The good news is that a few simple habits for a couple of weeks are all it takes.
Sleep elevated
For the first several nights, sleep with your head raised above heart level. Two or three pillows works, and a recliner or a wedge pillow works better. Elevation reduces the swelling that typically peaks around day three or four, and it makes the whole first week more comfortable.
Sleep on your back
For roughly the first ten to fourteen days, sleep on your back so nothing presses against the recipient area. This is the hard part for side and front sleepers, and it is worth persevering, because the grafts are most vulnerable in the first 72 hours.
A U-shaped travel pillow around the neck helps a great deal. It stops the head rolling sideways during the night without you having to think about it, and it keeps the back of the head off the pillow.
Protect the pillow, and the grafts
Use a clean pillowcase and change it regularly. Some people put a clean towel over the pillow for the first nights, which is easy to swap. If the donor area was dressed, follow the instructions you were given about that.
Avoid anything that rubs. No hoodies pulled up over the head, no tight hats to bed, and be careful getting in and out of bed in the dark.
When can you go back to normal?
Most people return to their usual sleeping position after about two weeks, once the grafts are secure and crusting has cleared. We confirm the timing for your case in writing, since it varies a little with the size of the procedure.
If you cannot sleep
Broken sleep in the first nights is common, between the elevation, the unfamiliar position and general adrenaline. It settles. Do not take sedatives or alcohol to force it, as alcohol affects healing and swelling; ask us if it is really troubling you.
Frequently asked questions
What if I roll onto my side in my sleep?
One accidental roll after the first few days is unlikely to be a disaster, but a travel pillow makes it far less likely. If it happens repeatedly in the first 72 hours, tell us.
How many pillows should I use?
Enough to keep your head clearly above heart level, usually two or three, or a wedge. Comfort matters, since you need to actually sleep.
Can I sleep on my front?
Not for the first two weeks. It puts direct pressure on the recipient area, which is exactly what you are avoiding.
When can I use a normal pillow again?
Generally after about two weeks, once we have confirmed the grafts are secure and healing is on track.
Book a free consultation at our Harley Street clinic, and call us during recovery with any concern.