Is feeling sad after an explant normal?

Question

I already suffer from depression and anxiety. I'm 24 hours post explant and today I'm noticing how sad I am. Is this something that normal patients go through?

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

There are hormonal changes that occur as a result of surgery, plus the medications for pain, plus the loss of the implants which all can explain the sadness.  This should go away within a short time.

Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS · Answer

It is normal to feel sad after an explantation. If this persists then I would suggest you contact the physician who gives you your meds. You may need some support to help you through this rough time. You will get past this and do well.Good LuckStephen M. Davis, MD, FACSGreen Hills Plastic Surgery

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Yes, significant “emotional” swings are quite commonly encountered after all types of elective surgery. In my experience, patients who have a history of depression may be more prone to such emotional “ups and downs”. I would suggest that you do your best to occupy your mind with activities that you enjoy.  For example, for our patients experiencing these types of post operative “sadness”, I suggest they walk outdoors (fresh air),  movies, books they enjoy, family/friends support… Let your plastic surgeon and/or your "mental health professional” know if  you do not see/feel improvements. Best wishes.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

It is normal to have emotional swings after elective surgery.  Explain your sadness to your surgeon, as he may have some suggestions to help.  Best wishes!

Michael E. Ciaravino, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

It is very normal for patients after surgery in general to go through many emotions. The anesthesia along with any medications your taking play a huge roll in how you feel after surgery. In your case a explant takes more time compared to say a breast augmentation. You are dealing with the emptiness of your breasts and  loose skin/saggy breasts. It will take time for the skin to shrink and tighten. What will play a big role in in this process are most commonly what your breast size was before implants, the size of your previously removed implants, and your skin laxity. I recommend wearing good support if not even a ace wrap to help take the tension off the skin. My experience with this type of procedure is that the skin shrinks and tightens faster with compression of some sort.

Is feeling sad after an explant normal?

Answers (5)