Reminder of what are normal post-op emotions

By TallOne on 09 Jan 2012

This is for me to remember that feelings of sadness post-operatively are normal. I realize that this does not happen to all people but the few that it does happen to may include me. I know that I need to be patient and think positive as it promotes better healing and relaxation. I know that I need to wait out my healing period before I pass judgement and follow my surgeon's instructions to increase my chances of a great result. I do 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:a). sore b). tired c). irritable d). unsure e). possibly depressed f). bloated g). bored h). anxious i). restless j). unable to sleep at times 2. During my recovery my breast may: a). be assymetrical b). be lopsided c). be swollen d). be bruised e). be tender to the touch f). experience sharp pains or numbness g). be firm or hard h). break out with acne i). experience irritation from the tape or anesthetic j). feel like they are sunburned k). have nipple sensitivity l). experience a tingling sensation m). 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 do realize 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, be they "in the flesh" or online. I know this state of dissaray 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.

Comments (7)

zing 10 May 2012

Very great reminder. I really needed this even though I am still pre-op.

Tibs 9 May 2012

See that the above comment from TallOne came from the following website which I found extremely helpful and so may others-breastreduction4you.com

Holly in PA 22 Jan 2012

Thank you! This is very well put and gives us much food for thought especially for someone who just went thru this surgery. We need to focus on the positives of healing & why we're having this done in the first place. And we must remember that any negatives that we may encounter along the way will be taken care of in their own time. We are in good hands. We just need to have patience & allow the time that it takes for healing. The final results will be more than we hoped for.

Mrs. Thomas 18 Jan 2012

Thank you so much for sharing this! I will always keep this in mind when I am healing from my surgery.

FelineDivine 11 Jan 2012

When I used to throw parties at my beach condo, I enjoyed planning, inviting, cooking, mixing the cocktail of the night, ect. One standing friend and guest at any event I throw was in a very unhealthy relationship at the time and she always brought her boyfriend, of course. The parties overall would be fun but every single time, they would argue, making every other guest uncomfortable. Knowing this, I started taking the mindset, pre-party, that I knew they would argue and I chose to view it as comical in an effort to keep the vibe light. Low and behold, the arguments came so I said "Hey guys....it's not a party until "F" and "J" get into it!". It worked!! Their bickering no longer owned the power of the room and the party remained awesome.

I relate this to your post because as I was reading it, I felt those moments come back. The majority of us view our BR's as fantastic event but the reality is that it's not all unicorns and rainbows. Might as well go in with the EXPECTATION that there are going to be things that suck about it and feel empowered once we conquer them with the support of others and our inner bad asses. Your post is amazing and you are amazing for doing it. :)

JemimaB 9 Jan 2012

Nicely said, and a great reminder.
I think that we often wait for so long for this surgery and are so excited when it is finally time that once it's over and the first few days have passed, we get bored and anxious. Or I know that I did.