9 days post-op and I keep crying. Is this normal? Will it effect the outcome?

Question

I unfortunately don't have the best support system, plus I seem to be a tad bit more emotional since my rhinoplasty. I'm 9 days post up and had a fight and crying spell for about an hour, as well as 3 other times since my rhinoplasty. I did not touch my nos at all during these episodes, nor did it bleed. Will this have a negative impact on the outcome?

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Ev,Crying and hitting your nose (see Manny Pacquiao answer) are not ideal during rhinoplasty recovery.  Crying causes increased swelling. It is normal to feel a bit down during the immediate post-op period from any surgery.  All should be well, good luck and be well.Dr. P

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Changes in mood with surgery are to be expected.  Crying should not cause problems.  It is always difficult to assess the final result so early in the healing process.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Richard J. Brown, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear you are upset. It is not uncommon for patients to feel emotional after procedures. There is a lot of anxiety and emotion surrounding surgery and it all comes together after surgery. You will not hurt anything by crying. Not having a support system is difficult. Just trust in your decision to have your procedure and try to find a place where you can look forward to seeing your results as they unveil over the next weeks to months. Glad you reached out to this forum. We will be your support.

Benjamin Gelfant, MD, FRCSC (retired) · Answer

You likely won't harm the physical outcome of your recent rhinoplasty operation. It is common to have a lot of emotional ups and downs early on after cosmetic surgery. But frequent crying spells and not having a good support system is worrisome. If you don't have anyone else to turn to for emotional support, ask your plastic surgeon. He or she may be able to refer you to someone or just by listening to you and hearing the difficulties you are having, may be helpful.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Evitaz, I am sorry for your tears as this should be a time of joy and not upset however please know this may be common in some patients especially if they feel they are not getting the support they are hoping for. Sometimes in elective procedures patients will expect help or support from loved ones that they do not receive causing upset and aggravation. Crying may cause more swelling and should be reduced if possible. Crying will cause your nose to run, sometimes an increase in blood pressure, and certainly not an overall calming for recovery. This will not have a negative outcome on your overall results so all should be well. In the interim try and take a deep breath, listen to some music that makes you happy and relax the best you can. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

9 days post-op and I keep crying. Is this normal? Will it effect the outcome?

Answers (5)