I had a tummy tuck 2 weeks ago. I feel so depressed. I am crying. Is this normal?

I am sorry to hear about the "depression" you are experiencing. It is, however, not uncommon to experience what you are experiencing at this time in your recovery. Severe emotional “ups and downs” are common after the major surgery that you have undergone. 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 up.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.If this depression continues you may want to discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon and consider counseling.As I mentioned earlier, the incidence of "postoperative depression" is significant;  so much so that I provide the following advice to my patients prior to undergoing tummy tuck or mommy makeover surgery (I hope this helps you in some way):Since you considering undergoing a major operation which again involves a significant physical and emotional recovery ( often underestimated by surgeons and patients alike), a few words of advice may be helpful:
1. Make sure you are doing the procedure for the right reasons (for yourself) and that you have realistic expectations. Be aware that an improvement in the “problem area” may not translate to an overall improvement in your life situation. You are bound to be disappointed with results of the procedure if your motivation for doing the surgery is not internally driven.2. Time your surgery carefully; generally, it is not a good idea to have surgery done during or immediately after a stressful period in life (for example divorce or death of a loved one). The additional stress of surgery will undoubtedly be more challenging to deal with if a patient's emotional reserves our already exhausted. Remember, that an improvement in your physical appearance will not translate to an improvement in your life situation.3. If possible speak to patients who have undergone similar procedures and query them about the toughest times of their recovery period. Any practical hints previous patients can provide may be very helpful.4. Make sure you are aware of potential complications that may arise how to reach your surgeon if necessary.
5. Make sure you have a strong and patient support system (several people if possible) in place who have time/patience to take care of you. Arrange for professional nursing if any doubt exists regarding the availability and/or stamina of your caretakers.6. Be patient with the healing process, understanding that it will take several weeks to months to feel “normal” again. It may also take many months/year to see the end results of your surgery.7. Be prepared to distract your mind with things of interest such as books, magazines, and movies.8. Expect less of yourself; do not go back to work, school or chores too early and let others take care of you (for a change).9. Pick your surgeon carefully (a well experienced board-certified plastic surgeon) and trust in his/her advice. Keep in close communication with your surgeon and do not hesitate to communicate questions/concerns and the emotional swings that you may experience.10. Resume all medications that you were using preoperatively when cleared by your plastic surgeon and stop the use of narcotics and sedatives as soon as feasible after surgery.11. Keep in mind the end results as you go through the tougher emotional times after your surgery.Keep in mind that the worst part of your recovery is over!  Best wishes.

Hello,Thank you for your question. This kind of emotional let down can happen after making a stressful and costly decision which has changed your body. Adding swelling, discomfort and changes to your daily activity can be a lot to process. Everyone handles this differently. This is most likely temporary and you will feel better but it is a great idea to share how you are feeling with your Plastic Surgeon and perhaps book an appointment with someone who can council you through this period. I hope that at some point soon you can begin to enjoy your surgical results.I wish you all the best

Hello, the recovery after a tummy tuck can be emotionally and physically challenging for some people.  However, I have not had many patients tell me they feel truly depressed all the time to the point that they are crying.  I would recommend sharing this with your PS and family physician to ensure you have proper support both psychologically and from a surgical healing perspective.