Depressed, and emotional following breast augmentation?

Question

Hello, I am 8 days post op and today I have started feeling really unsure about my decision. I haven't felt this before and I don't know why because I was thrilled and did my research before undergoing surgery. I am happy with my results but I have been feeling worried that my augmentation will cause me future problems such as cancer or other illnesses. I hope this is just a phase that will pass. Is this typically normal for patients to go through depression of this sort? Thank you!

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, it can be an adjustment for some people after having this surgery.  It's important to discuss this with your surgeon, family doctor, and others who can support you and help you through this process.

Hampton A. Howell, MD · Answer

Hi.  Sorry to hear you are having some depression after your surgery, but this is actually not that uncommon.  I look at it as similar to how some women have depression after delivering a child.  I think that sometimes the overall stress of the situation and the surgery, including the excitement and anticipation leading up to the surgery as well as possible nervousness et cetera can all play into this.  Fortunately, this tends to be a relatively short lived dip in the emotions during the recovery process.  Certainly, if this were to get very significant or more severe, then you should see your primary care provider and/or surgeon to help you through the process.  Good luck and take care,Dr. Howell

Carolina Restrepo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Healing after plastic surgery is a process and the earlier parts are the most challenging.  Emotions are a big part of the process as well. Patients may experience depression and anxiety which can be triggered by the anesthesia and medication. Wishing you a speddy recovery!

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

It is common for some cosmetic patients to have mixed feelings post op. Sometimes delayed reaction to the surgical, anesthesia, and healing process can trigger emotional responses and concerns. Also pain medications, etc may add to this.It is important to keep support from friends, family, your plastic surgeon and their staff during this usually temporary phase. Avoid making any rash decisions or assumptions. This can all be discussed to help alleviate your worries.Close, frequent follow up with your plastic surgeon and staff is recommended for as long as needed.

Cristen Catignani, MD · Answer

It is not at all uncommon to experience a wide span of emotions following any type of surgery.  Cosmetic plastic surgery is especially hard because prior to surgery you are in good health and often feel great.  Surgical procedures and anesthesia can cause you to have pain and other symptoms that were not present prior to surgery.  
Give yourself time to heal and don't hesitate to reach out to your support system or your plastic surgeons office for support and reassurance.

Shahin Fazilat, MD, FACS · Answer

I have had several patients go through similar feelings after surgery.   You are early in your recovery process and likely not able to be very active.  It is important to discuss all your concerns with your PS.   Try and get out of the house a bit, take a walk outside, and see friends and family.These feelings will pass as you recover.  Again, I encourage you to follow up with your surgeon.   Best of luck to you!

Debra L. Stafford, MD · Answer

Hello, I am glad that you are reaching out for help in dealing with the depression and mixed feelings you are having concerning your procedure. Depression  after undergoing a cosmetic procedure is extremely common and is even more likely after breast surgery.
The are a number of causes that could be contributing to your "down" feelings.  Individuals may create an almost "fantasy" of the new life the procedure will provide although the person is fully aware that this "fantasy" is unrealistic. When life continues as usual, feelings of "buyers remorse" may set in and could progress to anxiety and depression. Also, a new body image now exists and it may take the mind time to adjust to the altered image in the mirror. In addition, cosmetic procedures involve a degree of discomfort and inconvenience and enhanced emotional and practical assistance from family and friends is important.  If this support is not provided, the patient may feel anxiety while they attempt to navigate  life while being temporarily impaired. Other issues may exist as well that contribute to the "blues".
What can you do to alleviate some of these symptoms. First discuss how you feel with your surgeon. In my practice, I will occasionally prescribe short term antidepressants which will provide relief to the patient during the early adjustment period following a procedure. In the instance that the patient continues to feel "down", I will refer them to a clinical psychologist. If your surgeon is unable to provide psychological treatment or recommendations then consult with your primary care physician. Another option to receive primary care is the HRSA Health Centers. Many of these federal medical clinics, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, offer mental health care. If you feel that you are unable to obtain the treatment that you need then research "Find a HRSA health center".
In conclusion, these feelings that you are experiencing are most likely temporary but please seek further help if the depression persists. I wish you best for the future.

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

Actually, this is more common than you might imagine. A period of the "post-surgery blues". Try to stay positive and reengage into your normal activities. The vast majority of patients pass through this short phase without any serious effect.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the "depression" you are experiencing. It is, however, not uncommon to experience what you are experiencing at this time in your recovery.  
 Generally speaking, severe emotional “ups and downs” are common after all types of surgery. Requiring reassurance (that what you are experiencing is normal) is also common and to be expected. 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…).
I would suggest that you do your best to occupy your mind with activities that you enjoy. For example, for our patients experiencing these types of post operative “sadness”, I suggest they walk outdoors (fresh air), see movies, enjoy music, read books they enjoy, seek family/friends' support…  
Let your plastic surgeon know how you are feeling, especially if you do not see/feel improvement.  See him/her as frequently as necessary; I ask my patients experiencing complications or the "blues" to call if/when wish to talk or seek reassurance.  Talking to previous patients who have experienced similar complications (and at the end are very pleased with long-term outcome of the procedure) may be helpful as well.
 Do your best to keep positive perspective and keep in mind that the worst part of the recovery is over (and you have yet to enjoy the outcome of the procedure performed).
Best wishes.

Depressed, and emotional following breast augmentation?

Answers (9)

More Breast Implants Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (9)

More Breast Implants Questions

Will 560cc high profile silicone implant be too big for my 5ft2 (161cm) and 13.5 base width frame? (Photo)

Why are my implants at completely different heights? (Photo)

Why would my surgeon give me smaller implants than we had agreed upon?

Can I do a biopsy with breast implants?

Why don't many doctors recommend saline implants anymore?

Will 385cc gummy bear HP be a good look? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS