Is it normal to be an emotional wreck after surgery?

Question

so today is my 3rd day post op for my abdominoplasty you since I got home from the hospital I've been so emotional it's like PMS from hell - 2. I now that my boyfriend I don't have any patience and so emotional I like cry at the drop of a dying I don't know what's going on and I don't know if they see normal

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about the tough time you are having after your surgery.You should be aware that it is not unusual for patients to undergo significant emotional “ups and downs” after any type of surgery. Surgery of any kind carries a significant amount of stress with it;  again, it is not unusual to see patients undergo “post operative depression” that  generally resolves after a few weeks.  The  surgical related stress may be compounded/increased if there are other significant stressors occurring in your life at this point.I would suggest that you communicate your experience with your plastic surgeon who knows you and your situation best and may be able to provide specific guidance,  depending on the specific “stressors” that may be present in your life. If necessary, counseling may also be helpful.Best wishes.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear you are having a hard time emotionally after your surgery.  It is not uncommon to feel ups and downs as you progress through recovery.  The combination of medications and the change in how you look and feel physically can be overwhelming.  If you continue to experience these emotions or if they worsen, be sure to contact your surgeon.

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

Yes, it is not uncommon to feel depressed and or emotionally labile after cosmetic surgery.  Not everyone experiences it. The incidence is 1 out 5. This will go away in almost everyone within the first month . It is a grief reaction based in a perception of doe anatomic loss-- loosing the big nose, loosing the lower roll, loosing the small breast, etc... Provided there was no major pre-operative psychological issues- this should subside. If however, a patient is under psychological care then it might be a good idea - to reconnect with that healthcare provider.

Jeffrey Ditesheim, MD, FACS · Answer

Do
a quick online search for “post surgery blues” and you’ll find you’re far from
alone in feeling emotional after getting surgery. This applies not only to
plastic surgery, but all types of surgical procedures. You may be experiencing
a wide range of emotions, including frustration at your limited mobility and stressed
that you’re looking at swelling and stitches instead of a beautiful final
result. You might even be wondering if you made the right choice in getting a
tummy tuck at all. All of these emotions are completely normal reactions. Hang
in there, give yourself a break and just take it easy. Give your body the time
you need to rest and heal, and know that these feelings will soon pass.

Glenn M. Davis, MD, FACS · Answer

First
off, I’m sorry to hear that you’re having a difficult time after your tummy
tuck. Many people don’t realize that getting plastic surgery is a very
emotional process. Some patients feel a post-surgical depression similar to
post-partum depression when they conceptualize the surgery as having lost a
part of themselves. Also keep in mind that the effects of anesthesia combined
with any pain medications you’re taking can affect your mental chemistry.
Normally, any negative emotional feelings after surgery go away within the
first week or two. However, if you continue to struggle emotionally, or if you
have a history of emotional or psychological imbalance, I recommend talking to
a healthcare provider.

Is it normal to be an emotional wreck after surgery?

Answers (9)

Answer: Feeling emotional after surgery is very normal

Answer: Feeling emotional after surgery is very normal

Answer: Post-operative emotional swings are a normal part of plastic surgery

Answer: Post-operative emotional swings are a normal part of plastic surgery

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Is it normal to be an emotional wreck after surgery?

Answers (9)

Answer: Feeling emotional after surgery is very normal

Answer: Feeling emotional after surgery is very normal

Answer: Post-operative emotional swings are a normal part of plastic surgery

Answer: Post-operative emotional swings are a normal part of plastic surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.