Why does some patients experience "the blues" or feel sad and down after the Tummy Tuck procedure?

 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 things of interest such as books, magazines, and movies.
8. Expect less of yourself; do not go back to work, school or chores too early and let others take care of you (for a change).
9. Pick your surgeon carefully (a well experienced board-certified plastic surgeon) and trust in his/her advice. Keep in close communication with your surgeon and do not hesitate to communicate questions/concerns and the emotional swings that you may experience.
10. Resume all medications that you were using preoperatively when cleared by your plastic surgeon and stop the use of narcotics and sedatives as soon as feasible after surgery.
11. Keep in mind the end results as you go through the tougher emotional times after your surgery.
I hope this, and the attached link, helps. Best wishes.    

Hello dear thanks for your important question.A tremendous amount of effort goes into a plastic surgery decision.
Anticipation of the procedure can cause stress. Recovery is another
issue, whether it includes the mixed emotion of grieving the facial or
bodily imperfection loss, or the lack of support from a family member or
friends. For example, your child may prefer that mom would look just
the way she always was. In fact, the initial discomforting recovery
appearance, such as bruising and swelling, may bring on the "blues" for
quite a few weeks after surgery.

Postoperative depression is not uncommon with any surgery. The
symptoms of postoperative depression are similar to those associated
with post-partum depression. After recovery, the emotional and social
challenge associated with gazing eyes or disapproving looks from others
can produce feelings of isolation or anger. At the same time, the final
results may be very positive, in some cases a dramatic alteration.Managing Expectations:It is important to have realistic expectations. While the procedure may
positively impact the perception of those around you, the increased
attention or disappointment of those around you may be a new challenge
to manage. Going into plastic surgery to improve a bodily or facial flaw
is one thing; expectations to improve the rest of your life are another
thing. While the results of plastic surgery may positively shape many
aspects of your life, it's not the most appropriate reason to have
surgery. The appropriate reason for cosmetic surgery is to improve the
appearance of a specific area of your body.Good luck :)