How can I avoid depression after mommy makeover?

Question

I have heard there may be a time when I may have remorse over having the surgery. Is Depression after mommy makeover because of the pain and scarring real? How can I avoid it?

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

After surgery, there is always a period where you would be sore, activity would be somewhat limited and you wouldn't feel quite like yourself.  I feel the best way to avoid having this effect you adversely is to have a frank discussion with your surgeon as exactly what to expect from your surgery, ie what will be made better, the expected contour, etc, and the time frame for recovery, so you will know what to expect and when you can begin returning to your normal daily activities.  If you are well prepared you are likely to avoid feeling depressed during your recovery.  In addition, plan on having multiple friends and family around for support and have a plan to keep yourself busy to keep your mind off things in the early going.  Best wishes.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Extensive surgery may produce a depressed state in some patients, but reasonable expectations along with supportive aftercare can help minimize this.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Feelings after surgery can vary.  Some women get discouraged because the recovery takes too long, or there are limitations to their regular activities, etc.  Speak with your surgeon in detail about what you can expect to look like and feel like in different phases of recovery.  If possible, talk with another patient or friend who has had the surgery to remind you that you're not alone and that it is all worth it in the end.  The best thing to remember is to be patient.  Healing takes time, but with a good attitude you'll be strutting before you know it!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the good question. Yes, significant “emotional” swings are quite commonly encountered after all types of elective surgery.   The specific cause of the  "postoperative depression" is not known;  in my opinion, it is probably multifactorial ( factors such as stress, pain, unanticipated length of recovery, being away from usually enjoyed activities/people…).

In my experience, patients who have a history of depression may be more prone to such emotional “ups and downs”.  In other words, patient personality features ( "glass half full") makes a difference when it comes to the recovery experience.

I think that it is ideal for patients to be at their best physically, mentally, and psychosocially prior to proceeding with tummy tuck or mommy makeover surgery.

I would suggest that patients do their best to occupy your mind with activities that they enjoy. For example, for our patients experiencing these types of post operative “sadness”, I suggest they walk outdoors (fresh air), see movies, read books they enjoy, seek family/friends' support…

A few words of advice I provide to my patients undergoing tummy tuck or mommy makeover surgery may be helpful to you:

1. Make sure you are doing the procedure for the right reasons (for yourself) and that you have realistic expectations. Be aware that an improvement in the “problem area” may not translate to an overall improvement in your life situation. You are bound to be disappointed with results of the procedure if your motivation for doing the surgery is not internally driven.

2. Time your surgery carefully; generally, it is not a good idea to have surgery done during or immediately after a stressful period in life (for example divorce or death of a loved one). The additional stress of surgery will undoubtedly be more challenging to deal with if a patient's emotional reserves our already exhausted. Remember, that an improvement in your physical appearance will not translate to an improvement in your life situation.

3. If possible speak to patients who have undergone similar procedures and query them about the toughest times of their recovery period. Any practical hints previous patients can provide may be very helpful.

4. Make sure you are aware of potential complications that may arise how to reach your surgeon if necessary.

5. Make sure you have a strong and patient support system (several people if possible) in place who have time/patience to take care of you. Arrange for professional nursing if any doubt exists regarding the availability and/or stamina of your caretakers.

6. Be patient with the healing process, understanding that it will take several weeks to months to feel “normal” again. It may also take many months/year to see the end results of your surgery.

7. Be prepared to distract your mind with what you are experiencing at this time in your recovery. Severe emotional “ups and downs” are common after the major surgery that you have undergone.  Requiring reassurance (that what you are experiencing is normal) is also common and to be expected. 8. Keep in mind the end results as you go through potentially tougher emotional times after your surgery.Best wishes for a smooth post operative course both from the physical and "emotional" standpoints points AND for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

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