Is it normal to feel a little depressed after breast augmentation?

Question

I definitely don't regret my breast augmentation because it is something I've been longing for since I was 17 yrs old. But for some reason I feel a little depressed now about 1 week after the surgery and I don't understand why. Several times durring the evenings I feel like I want to cry, but I just can't figure out the reason why. Could this be some sort of "side effect" from the surgery? I will be very thankful for replies, XO.

George Volpe, MD · Answer

There are a number of reasons why one may feel depressed following surgery but there are two common ones.  Pain medications can easily cause swings and a general malaise. Also, during the act of surgery, one utilizes a lot of adrenaline and adrenaline like hormones in the body. This can make one depleted of these natural caffeine like chemicals for 2 to 3 weeks following surgery and make one feel a bit down. This can manifest as depression, especially if somebody has a history of depression prior.

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! It is normal to feel emotional after surgery.  You just had a surgery and changed your appearance, it can all be very overwhelming! Once you heal and start to see your result you will be very happy.  Best of luck! Dhaval Patel
Double Board Certified 
Plastic Surgeon
Chicago 
Hoffman Estates
Oakbrook
Orland Park

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon for patients to find themselves feeling blue post surgery. Not only has there been a huge build up of adrenaline, excitement and expectation for your surgery, which is now over, but many of the pain medications that patients take post op can affect your mood. Also, remember that you've been laying low for a week and are probably a little bored. My advise would be to get out in the sunshine. If your blues continue, talk to your surgeon. This is nothing to be embarrassed about and I applaud you for reaching out.

Kenty Sian, MD · Answer

If you are slightly depressed after your breast augmentation surgery, you may not be alone. Sometimes, patients underestimate the amount of pain and discomfort they go through after plastic surgery. This could put a damper on their enthusiasm after surgery and they may question how long these symptoms would last. It is important for you to discuss all your concerns with your plastic surgeon so that your fears can be allayed. Good luck.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Eliina_V, I'm sorry to hear that you are depressed after your surgery. I see this in a small number of my patients post operatively. Good news is that all of them end up very satisfied and happy after a few weeks. It is normal to have these feelings afterwards. Best of luck.

Is it normal to feel a little depressed after breast augmentation?

Answers (6)

Answer: Depressed after BA

Answer: Depressed after BA

Answer: Sad after surgery

Answer: Sad after surgery

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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Is it normal to feel a little depressed after breast augmentation?

Answers (6)

Answer: Depressed after BA

Answer: Depressed after BA

Answer: Sad after surgery

Answer: Sad after surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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