Post-operative depression after BA?

Question

I had a BA a week ago. My surgery and recovery has been great. My PS and I were on the same page with my expectations and I am thrilled with the results.My pain was well managed and was off pain killers two days after the surgery with only an occasional Tylenol.Everything is going well. So why am I so sad? I have random moments when I cry for no reason. Other times I have anxiety. I don't have previous issues with depression. I am wondering if it is from the anesthesia? What's happening?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

HEALING AFTER BREAST SURGERY, AUGMENTATION, LIFTS1.    pain is variable2.    it takes 2-3 months for implants to settle and muscles to relax3.    celebrex, motrin, and muscle relaxers can help4.    massage and stretching may help5.    everyone heals differently6.    4-7 days off from work is commonHEALING OF SENSORY NERVES: Tingling, burning or shooting pains, which will disappear with time and should not alarm you, indicate regeneration of the sensory nerves. If these sensations cause pain, repeated, local self-massage helps.ASYMMETRY: The two breasts commonly heal quite differently. One breast may swell more, feel more uncomfortable, or have a different initial shape. After complete healing, they will be more similar and natural. You must have patience, but if this causes concern, ask questions of the doctor or the nursing staff.SHAPE AND CONTOUR: The final shape of your breasts will start to look its best approximately three (3) months after surgery. It takes time for the skin and muscle to stretch and relax around the new implant. The breast will often look higher, firmer, and “less natural” in the first three (3) months. It can take up to a year to see your final result.FOLLOW-UP EXAMS: These are generally done in 1 week, 2 to 3 weeks, 3 to 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months to 1 year, and 1-2 year intervals. In our office we include all of your follow up appointments in the initial surgical fee.The best thing to do if you are worried about the healing process is to visit your surgeon for a follow-up appointment and have the area examined and make sure that everything is progressing as it should. Good luck.

Robert P. Schmid, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! I am sad to hear that you are feeling blue after your surgery. It's actually quite common to have post-operative depression after cosmetic surgery, really after any type of surgery and anesthesia. There are many articles written about this, your feelings are real. I would certainly bring this up with your plastic surgeon ASAP. Hopefully, this condition will hopefully resolve, although it can take months to do so. Best of luck to you!

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Surgery is a big decision. Your self image is affected and financially, many people feel anxiety related to the spending. Once surgery is done, the degree of stress you've undergone may be just surfacing. It is not uncommon for pain and a change in routine while healing to also affect depression/anxiety. The good news is this typically resolves by 1-2 months post op. I recommend that you keep trusted friends and family in the loop about how you are feeling. Let your Plastic Surgeon know and don't hesitate to seek out counseling if you find you need help processing. Talking about how you feel is usually helpful.All the best

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. It is common to experience this ups and downs you are going through. If you feel concerned best i to talk to your chosen surgeon. Good luck!

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. Severe emotional “ups and downs” are common after all types of surgery. Requiring reassurance (that what you are experiencing is normal) is also common. 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, 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.

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.

Post-operative depression after BA?

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Post-operative depression after BA?

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