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.

Depressed, and emotional following breast augmentation?

Answers (5)