How common is depression after a tummy tuck?

It is not uncommon to experience what you are experiencing at this time in your recovery. Severe emotional “ups and downs” are common after the major surgery that you have undergone. Requiring reassurance (that what you are experiencing is normal) is also common and to be expected. I would suggest closer follow-up with your surgeon–call and request earlier follow up.
Hopefully, after follow-up with your surgeon you will find that the depression will improve. Usually this occurs as patients become more active and return to their previous activities/lifestyle.
If this depression continues you may want to discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon and consider counseling/professional psychiatric evaluation.
Keep in mind that the worst part of the recovery is over!
Best wishes.

Unfortunately, after large elective procedures, there is sometimes a period of time where the patient asks themselves, "Did I do the right thing?". You are sore, incisions are fresh, tissue is bumpy, your activities are limited. You wonder why you voluntarily did this. Usually this lasts a few days to 2 weeks and the healing process proceeds, these questions are replaced by happiness over your result.