Feeling Sad After Plastic Surgery: What You Should Know

Having plastic surgery is an exhilarating journey. Patients often think about the changes they want to make for months or years before ever contacting a plastic surgeon. When the consultation finally takes place, discussion revolves around what can be achieved, what is involved, and what to expect in terms of recovery. The conversation about recovery often revolves around physical healing. Here, we discuss the emotional aspect of plastic surgery discovery so, if you were to feel sad after a much-anticipated procedure, you would know you’re completely normal.

While it feels good to focus on the outcome of plastic surgery (and can be helpful if you get the blues), the fact is that any surgery is taxing on the body. What is taxing on the body is bound to be taxing on the mind, as well. This isn’t a bad thing. It’s something all patients should know about so they are not blindsided if they were to feel less happy than they had expected. There are several reasons why one may feel sad after undergoing a procedure they have looked forward to for a long time. For some, it is difficult to be away from coworkers or a job that they love. For some, it is immensely challenging to put themselves first, even for a short recovery period. The reason for the post-op blues can vary widely and really hold no relevance to a peaceful recovery. What matters is what one does to address the blues.

Tips to Avoid the Post-op Blues

1. Engage in a direct and clear conversation with the surgeon about what to expect in terms of side effects. Not only of surgery but also of prescription pain medication. Discuss strategies to manage these side effects. Also discuss how long they should last, knowing that this can vary by days for each person.
2. Ask for help. Everyone benefits from a strong support system. This is especially true after undergoing any type of surgical procedure. The help that is needed may range from cooking or delivering meals to taking care of children or pets to just checking in via text or phone every day.
3. Get out and get moving. After plastic surgery, the extent of exercise most patients can do is walk. However, there is a lot of value in walking outdoors. The fresh air alone is grounding and calming, just what is needed to bust through feeling blue.
4. Eat well. Patients should not spend hours preparing meals for themselves or others after having surgery. However, eating well remains a priority. Whether fresh healthy foods are delivered or pre-made doesn’t matter. What matters is that the body gets the lean proteins, healthy fats, and leafy vegetables it needs to restore the energy that has been depleted by surgery.

Having plastic surgery is certainly a journey. Knowing that the blues may arise can help overcome them more quickly. For more information on a face or body procedure that will help you feel your best, call 760-610-8990.