Preparing Yourself Emotionally for Facial Plastic Surgery

Postsurgical depression can be caused by the after effects of anesthesia and other medications, lingering discomfort, postsurgical traumatic stress syndrome, a general sense of disarray in your life, and even by constipation from the medications. Having to stay in bed or being restricted in your activities and the fact that you must sleep almost upright for 2 weeks doesn't make things any better. Throw on top of that  you are all bruised up and sore. No wonder you're feeling down.

Pain and discomfort can really affect some patients. Although the discomfort isn't life threatening and it is getting better, it isn't exactly fun. Remember also that you were feeling fine before your surgery and you probably woke up from it feeling a bit like a train wreck. This sudden discomfort, especially if you have never had surgery or been seriously sick before and don't know what it is like, can throw you for a loop.

Don't discount the effects of pain medications and other drugs you may be taking. As mentioned above, the pain medications (and antibiotics) can cause constipation and other digestive problems. You may feel bloated and sometimes even have abdominal pain. Some surgeons suggest a mild stool softener like Colace® or  natural remedies such as eating a high fiber diet or eating daikon (a root vegetable also called Japanese radish) after you are finished with your medications. This helps with getting everything in working order again. Drinking plenty of water certainly helps flush out residual medications from your system and can help you feel better. This factor cannot be stressed enough.

That Period of Feeling "Let Down"

The number one reason for depression after plastic surgery may be that the adrenaline rush is now over. Imagine that you are expecting something good to happen and you are just so emotionally and mentally excited about it. You believe all is going to be wonderful and you think that as soon as your surgery is over your face will be just he way you want it. Then the bandages and sutures are removed and, well, you may not look that good. In fact, you are bruised swollen, uncomfortable, and you have less money in the bank. What gives?

The days after facial plastic surgery can make anyone question their decision to have it and question their own sanity. Subconsciously, you thought you would be looking wonderfully right after the surgery, no matter what you conscious brain was telling you about needing to have patience and time to see the final results. 

As the healing progresses, these thoughts usually disappear quickly. If you feel depressed while you are healing, understanding that this is a "natural" phase of the healing process may help you to cope.

Preparing for the Emotional Changes

Take these emotional changes into account and write down what to expect so you can note it afterwards when you ARE feeling blue. This will help you keep things in perspective and prepare your mind. It will also remind your brain that you DID know this was going to happen. You're not crazy - you're just going through a low. It should subside. 

If the depression does go away after a week or two, speak with your surgeon about it. You might want to get a referral for a therapist, which can do you a lot of good. Depression can be treated and it responds well to treatment.

Here is a list that you might want to print out and keep handy for after your surgery:

This is for me to remember that feelings of sadness postoperatively are normal. This does not happen to all people, but the few that it does happen to may include me. I know that I need to be patient and think positive because it promotes better healing and relaxation. I know I need to wait out my healing period before I pass judgment on the results and to follow my surgeon's instructions to increase my chances of a great result. I  know that stress and anxiety can only make matters worse and I will try my best to not let it affect me.

I will be sore, tired, irritable, unsure, possibly depressed, bloated, bored, anxious,restless,or  unable to sleep at times.

During my recovery my face may be asymmetrical, be crooked, be swollen. be bruised, be tender to the touch, experience sharp pains or numbness, be firm or hard, break out with acne, or be irritated from bandages.

I also realize that even the daily subtle changes or flaws that I may see in the mirror may not be visible to others. I am my own worst critic. 

I realize that once I heal my facial changes may be best seen with the help of before-and-after photos. If I do not like the end result after I am completely healed many months from now I can always approach my surgeon regarding my dissatisfaction.

I know that I must not take out my insecurities or anger on my significant other, family, or friends, but that I sometimes cannot help it and need to vent my frustration or sadness. I know I need to keep my chin up and let my body and mind heal because surgery can trigger many emotions. I know that I can always get support from my loved ones and friends.

I know this state of disarray and being unsure is only temporary. Today I will smile and remain patient because tomorrow will be another day and will bring me one day closer to being fully healed.