is it normal to regret immediately? 6 days post-op from bilateral breast augmentation.

Question

I was around a 34A prior and received 255cc moderate profile silicone gel implants. I have been regretting the decision basically since I woke up from surgery. I have this unwavering fear theyre going to make me sick. Im trying to wean off pain meds to go back to work but wake up crying in pain. Is it normal to feel this way? How can I manage discomfort and pain? I feel like a prisoner in my own body. I'm considering explant at this point.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. Yes, some people experience serious depression, anxiety or emotional turmoil after cosmetic surgery. Post op medications can affect your mood/thoughts so it is important to discuss this with your Plastic Surgeon and ensure that you are taking the best medication for you. Pain can also increase anxiety and the first couple of weeks post op can be stressful. As well, after a big decision which carries some stress and a change in your body, it takes some time to adjust and accept that change. I hope you have support people nearby. It might be a good idea to call a friend or family member who can stay close to you as you heal. Typically these feelings subside as immediate discomfort and swelling leaves and the breasts start to take on a more natural shape and feel more like a part of your body. Talk to your Plastic Surgeon about safety/health concerns. Incorrect, anecdotal accounts of, "implants making people sick" are not to be taken as reliable information. Clearing up some of the mystery should give you peace of mind that this is a safe surgery and today's implants are very safe, medical devices. All the best

M. Scott Haydon, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I'm sorry that you are going through a rough time, but realize that a lot of people experience this type of regret. I can only try and allay your fears with regard to safety. There is absolutely nothing about the implant that will make you sick. Hopefully you can soon start accepting your new look and feel like you made a good choice. Don't feel like there is something wrong with you. Best of Luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear sbrummer920, 
  
I am sorry to hear about your feelings after your surgery. It is normal to feel anxious following an elective cosmetic surgery or any other surgery for that matter. 
  
It is important to note that breast augmentation surgeries are relatively a safe medical procedure. Also, many patients are satisfied with the results and their decisions long term.
  
You just need to be patient and note that what you are feeling is normal. You can even speak with your plastic surgeon about your concerns so he can refer you to support groups if necessary. 
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Naveen Setty, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear about your feelings after surgery.  It is very common to have bouts of regret after elective cosmetic surgery.  I see it relatively frequently in my patients.  In all instances, these patients are happy with their decisions long term.  Your best friend will be patience and time and realizing what you are experiencing is normal.  Also, remember that breast implants have been proven to be as safe as any medical device on the market.  Because of all the concerns in the 90s, the studies performed on breast implants are some of the most extensive and comprehensive of any medical device.

Demetrius Evriviades, MS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Hi there, and thank you for your question. I am really sorry to hear that you are feeling this way following your surgery. It is normal to feel out of sorts after a general anaesthetic and this, in addition to the discomfort you are feeling, could well be a driving force behind your feelings of regret. I suggest you speak to your surgeon about the physical discomfort/pain you are feeling just to get a review of medication and check that your healing is on track. In addition to this, I would like to reassure you that these days breast implants undergo incredibly stringent safety tests, and are proven to be as safe as any other medical device. I hope you feel well soon.

David Rosenstein, MD · Answer

I thank you for your candor and please know that you're not alone. It is normal to feel a fear of regretting one's choice after any major surgery. But know that breast implants are a safe surgical procedure to undergo. Your worrying can cause you to delay healing so I recommend trying to calm down and relax. If the pain persists and you are still concerned in a few days definitely contact your surgeon. Maybe have a friend come over to socialize. Go for a walk down the block. Relax. And happy healing.

John Milam Shamoun, MD FACS · Answer

Many factors can cause anxiety after breast augmentation
Especially with the ridiculous nonscientific literature that is present throughout the Internet .

Be patient As I expect you will be fine because you did not go too large in size .
I would give it at least 8 months before making any decisions regarding explantation.
Your body will bond with the implants within two months and they will no longer feel foreign to you .

My advise is to Forget about the negative information that you read and enjoy your life .
Best Regards
Dr Shamoun 
Dubai /Abu Dhabi/Newport Beach

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your concerns early after breast augmentation surgery. 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.
  My best advice at this time: time and patience will likely be your "best friends".  Let your plastic surgeon know of all of your concerns; he/she will be in the best position to advise you when it comes to pain management and other concerns.
Best wishes for an outcome that you will be pleased with long-term.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Many factors can cause anxiety after breast augmentation
Especially with the ridiculous nonscientific literature that is present throughout the Internet .

Be patient As I expect you will be fine because you did not go too large in size .
I would give it at least 8 months before making any decisions regarding explantation.
Your body will bond with the implants within two months and they will no longer feel foreign to you .

My advise is to Forget about the negative information that you read and enjoy your life .
Best Regards
Dr Shamoun
Dubai /Abu Dhabi/Newport Beach

is it normal to regret immediately? 6 days post-op from bilateral breast augmentation.

Answers (9)

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