Depression After Surgery: What You Should Know

Many patients, including me, experience times of post surgery depression, feelings of sadness or anxiety during the recovery period. We begin to second guess ourselves and wonder if we ever should have had that breast lift or whatever the procedure in the first place. We begin to think we are unattractive and that the bruising and swelling will never go away. If you experience depression after plastic surgery, you are not alone. In fact, you're quite normal!
depression after breast lift surgery

Typical Reasons For Post Plastic Surgery Depression

Post surgery depression can result from the after effects of anesthesia (which seems to bring out our sensitive side and our anxiety), medications, post-surgical traumatic stress syndrome, constipation from the medications, and a general sense of disarray. Being instructed to stay in bed, restricted to low impact activities and having to sleep upright for 2 weeks during your breast lift recovery doesn't help matters, either! No wonder you're feeling down.

Pain and discomfort can really wreak havoc on some patients, and although neither is life threatening, they're no fun. As I mentioned above, the pain medications and antibiotics can cause constipation and other temporary digestive problems, backing up everything and making you feel bloated and crampy. Some surgeons suggest a mild stool softener like Colace or even natural remedies such as eating Daikon (a Chinese root vegetable) after you are finished with your medications. This helps get everything in working order again and flushes out residual meds from your body. Drinking plenty of water most certainly helps, and I cannot stress this enough.

That Period of Feeling Let Down

The number one reason for depression is usually that the adrenaline-driven period is now over and you've entered the Surgical Let Down Period. Imagine that you are expecting something that you've eagerly anticipated for a long time. You're just so emotionally and mentally excited, and there's the physical adrenaline rush going on as well. Just when you start to believe that life's going to be wonderful as soon as your bandages and support garments come off to reveal a perfect pair of breasts sitting on your chest, the cumbersome postoperative gear is removed and, lo and behold, your breasts are funny looking! In fact, you are bruised swollen, and uncomfortable, and you have these two breasts with sutures all over them that remind you of Frankenstein (Frankenboobies?). They don't exactly look pretty. What gives? What the heck did you pay for already?!

Depression after plastic surgery is very normal. Oftentimes patients experience a brief period of "let down" after breast lift surgery and other cosmetic procedures. Some women may subconsciously have expected to feel and look better instantly, even though they rationally understand that this will not be the case.

Patients commonly question their decision to have surgery during the first few days after surgery. As the healing progresses, these thoughts usually disappear quickly. If you feel depressed, understanding that this is a natural phase of the healing process may help you to cope with your emotional state.

You might try writing down what to expect so you can note it when you're feeling blue. This will help you keep things in perspective and prepare your mind. It will also remind your brain that you did know this was going to happen and you're not crazy -- you're just going through a low. It should subside. If it doesn't, speak with your surgeon about it, and possibly get a referral for a therapist. Don't take that wrong, it could do more good that you'd think.

I actually find it extraordinarily helpful to talk to real patients about these sad feelings. That's why you should visit our Breast Lift Support Forum. You can trade stories and seek support from people who have been there and can help you better than a therapist who has never even thought about plastic surgery before.

Post-operative Emotions Reminder List

Click Here

Printer Friendly Version
RECOMMENDED!

This is for me to remember that postoperative feelings of sadness are normal. I realize that this does not happen to all people, but those that it does happen to may include me. I know that I need to be patient and think positively as it promotes better healing and relaxation. I know that I need to wait out my healing period before I pass judgment and follow my surgeon's instructions to increase my chances for a great result. I know that stress and anxiety can only make matters worse and I will try my best to not let it affect me.

1. I will be:

  • sore

  • tired

  • irritable

  • unsure

  • possibly depressed

  • bloated

  • bored

  • anxious

  • restless

  • unable to sleep at times

2. During my recovery my breasts may:

  • be asymmetrical

  • be lopsided

  • be swollen

  • be bruised

  • be tender to the touch

  • experience sharp pains or numbness

  • be firm or hard

  • break out with acne

  • experience irritation from the tape or anesthetic

  • feel like they are sunburned

  • have major nipple sensitivity

  • experience a tingling sensation

  • be numb

I also realize that even the daily subtle changes or flaws that I may see in the mirror may not be visible to others, as I am my own worst critic. I realize that once I heal my changes can be seen with the help of before and after photos and if I do not like the end result after I am healed many months from now I can always approach my surgeon regarding my dissatisfaction.

I must not take out my insecurities or anger on my significant other, family or friends, but I sometimes cannot help it and need to vent my frustration or sadness. I know I need to keep my chin up and let my body and mind heal because surgery is invasive and can trigger many emotions. I know that I can always get support from my loved ones and friends, either in person or online.

I know this state of disarray and being unsure is only temporary. Today I will smile and remain patient because tomorrow will be another day and will bring me one day closer to being fully healed.

You must realize you are healing and give your breasts time to settle, especially if you've gotten breast implants. If you know what to expect, you will not be so upset.

Unlike plastic surgery, patients who have undergone refractive eye surgery typically have an immediate boost in attitude. It is not uncommon for patients who have undergone the laser cataract surgery procedure or LASIK eye surgery to have several months of sheer joy. They are happy about the improvement in lifestyle related to the newly found freedom from glasses or contact lenses. This type of joy typically occurs for breast lift patients after more of an extended time period after surgery.