Anxiety before surgery causes high blood pressure - what can I do to prepare for my next procedure?

Managing anxiety before surgery is crucial, especially if it contributes to elevated blood pressure. Here are several strategies to help you prepare for your next procedure and reduce anxiety:

Communication with Your Healthcare Team:

Inform your surgeon and healthcare team about your anxiety. They can provide information, address concerns, and discuss the steps they will take to ensure your comfort and safety.
Preoperative Counseling:

Consider seeking preoperative counseling or talking to a mental health professional about your anxiety. They can provide coping strategies and support to manage anxiety before the surgery.
Deep Breathing Exercises:

Practice deep breathing exercises to help calm your nervous system. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold your breath for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat several times.
Mindfulness and Meditation:

Incorporate mindfulness techniques or meditation into your daily routine. Mindfulness can help focus your mind, reduce stress, and promote a sense of calm.
Visual Imagery:

Use positive visual imagery to create a mental image of a calm and peaceful place. Visualization techniques can help shift your focus away from anxiety.
Stay Informed:

Learn as much as you can about the procedure, recovery process, and what to expect. Understanding the details can help alleviate fear of the unknown.
Create a Support System:

Talk to friends, family, or a support group about your concerns. Having a strong support system can provide emotional support and reassurance.
Distraction Techniques:

Engage in activities that distract your mind from anxious thoughts. This could include reading, listening to music, or watching a movie.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR):

Practice progressive muscle relaxation, a technique involving tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups. This can help release physical tension associated with anxiety.
Ensure a Good Night's Sleep:

Adequate sleep is essential for managing stress and anxiety. Establish a calming bedtime routine before the night of the surgery.
Follow Preoperative Instructions:

Adhere to any preoperative instructions provided by your surgeon, including fasting guidelines and medication instructions.
If anxiety remains a significant concern, discuss the possibility of anti-anxiety medications with your healthcare team. They can provide guidance on appropriate medications and dosages.

Remember, it's normal to feel anxious before surgery, but taking proactive steps to manage anxiety can contribute to a more positive preoperative experience. Always consult with your healthcare team for personalized advice based on your individual needs and medical history.

thank you for your question. Reading your note, I think a primary care or internal medicine physician should be consulted. Somewhat raised blood pressure just before undergoing surgery is to be expected, but your case reads different. When a patient undergoes an elective procedure, and esp a lenghty procedure like a mommy makeover, where fluid shifts are expected, every patient should be in good health and condition.

Hello @Affectionate934882, thank you for your question. I understand that feeling anxious before surgery is a common concern for many patients, and it can result in high blood pressure. It is manageable with careful planning.

To begin, consult your primary care physician and share your worries about blood pressure and anxiety. Make sure you have enough rest and sleep before surgery. Lowering your stress levels can lower your blood pressure. This includes getting enough rest, both physically and emotionally, and prioritizing activities like yoga or meditation before the day of operation.

Changing your diet may also help to alleviate pre-surgery anxiety - focus on eating foods low in sugar, salt, caffeine and fat - opt for more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and complex carbohydrates instead. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).