Is it normal to be so upset after tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

I have wanted this for 8 years. I did it while I was to have a breast tumor removed. I had a tumor removal, breast aug, and tummy tuck. I am on week 2 and can't stop crying wishing I would never have done this. I barely sleep due to drains being awfully uncomfortable. I thought I did my research. The anxiety sucks. I can barely look at my stomach without getting upset. Is this an abnormal side effect? Will this pass? Is it normal to regret this entire procedure I've wanted for so long.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your pictures and questions. Sorry to hear you are so upset. The recovery after a tummy tuck can be rough sometimes and you are still early so I encourage you to be patient. It will take 3-6 months for things to settle down and for your final results to be revealed. Some patients can be discouraged early, but I have never had a patient regret a tummy tuck after everything is finished. Follow closely with your surgeon and follow his or her instructions.Best of luck!

David R. Broadway, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and the attached photograph!
  
Yes!  It is very common and “normal” for patients to have some depression and/or anxiety after surgery. I would expect this to be especially true since you had more than one procedure done at the same time.
  
Surgery affects each person differently.  It is certainly not uncommon to be depressed on the third or fourth day but these feelings may take several weeks to appear.  Oftentimes, there is pain, discomfort with even minor movements, limitations and restrictions on your activities, while also being “cooped up in your home”. These factors can have an impact on your emotions. Sometimes postoperative feelings are influenced by feedback from others both positive and negative. 
  
Fortunately, feelings of depression and anxiety usually resolve   quickly as time passes  and the healing process progresses.
  
Your photograph is encouraging in that you appear to be healing well.   The scarring from your surgery will improve dramatically over the next few months.
  
 Be sure to discuss your concerns with your surgeon as I am sure he/she can give you the reassurance that you need. Best of luck healing!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your concerns after tummy tuck 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…).
I suggest that patients do their best to occupy your mind with activities that they 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… 
 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 if needed. 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.  Best wishes.

James Clayton, MD (retired) · Answer

It is not unusual to have the feelings you are experiencing following the breast and abdominal surgery you just had.  You are having pain and the wounds are so early (2 weeks) that they don't look like they will as they mature.  Reassurance from surgeons on RealSelf who are experienced with these operations, as well as from your own surgeon, can help you through this "tough" period.  The photo you sent shows a normal appearance of the incision at this early period following an abdominoplasty.  As healing proceeds, the scars generally improve and become very acceptable.

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