What You Need to Know about Plastic Surgery and Your Emotions

Any plastic surgery procedure can be an exciting journey. The vast majority of procedures that we perform are done to improve some aspect of a person’s appearance that has been affected by aging, weight, or other factors. People who begin their plastic surgery journey often have very high hopes. The excitement before surgery is expected to continue through recovery, even when patients are prepared for some soreness and tenderness at their surgical site. Encountering the opposite can be jarring. Here, we discuss a little thing called the post-op blues.

Feeling Sad after Plastic Surgery 

Experiencing unexpected sadness, irritability, sensitivity, and anxiety after having a successful plastic surgery procedure can be a very confusing thing. It is similar to postpartum depression in that these feelings occur at a time when one is expected to be happy. Not only do they expect to be happy, but those around them do, as well. There is little to provide insight into these unusual feelings, which can only worsen them. This is why we find it important to address this temporary condition. 

There actually can be some explanation for post-op depression. First, the body goes through a lot during surgery, even if it is not considered a major medical procedure. Even though there is excitement around having plastic surgery, there is inevitably some stress, too, which is held by the body, not just the mind. Finally, it can be more difficult than a person thought it would be to rely on others for basic needs, even for just a few days. All of these, plus missing out on the normal routine of life, can easily create a depressed state. 

Managing Post-op Emotions

Fortunately, if the post-op blues do occur, these feelings diminish as the body starts to look and feel better. Still, why endure this sadness if you can avoid it? There are a few ways you may be able to reduce the chances of the blues, starting before surgery. 

  • Communicate questions to the surgeon, including what to expect right after surgery and as you heal. 
  • Communicate with loved ones ahead of time. Allow them to be there for you if you start to feel sad and isolated from normal life. 
  • Create a list of affirmations to remind yourself of your reasons for having surgery. 
  • Post pictures that will remind you of your motivation for surgery and all that you have to look forward to. 
  • Eat well. There is something emotionally healing about enjoying nourishing food made with love. Just make sure to prepare your meals ahead of time so you do not have to cook while recovering. 

Your plastic surgery journey need not be stressful. We’re here to help you from beginning to fabulous end. To schedule a consultation, contact our Bloomington office at (309) 664-1007.

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