The Postoperative Reality of Surgery - The Depression I Experienced

EXPECTATIONS VS. REALITY

I knew making the decision to undergo cosmetic surgery would bring upon a series of challenges physically as well as psychologically. The decision was not something I took lightly. Postoperative depression is a common side effect to surgery and affects a range of people, not just those undergoing cosmetic surgery.

Although I knew the postoperative statistics (15-53% of patients experience this) I wasn’t prepared for the psychological ramifications. It wasn’t until I saw myself in the mirror for the first time that the depression started sinking in. Seeing your face bruised and battered is triggering to some and can come as a shock. It did for me. After looking at myself for the first time I contemplated if this was even a good idea. “What did I do to my face?” I thought. I scoured the internet for others in my situation and found the video below to be so helpful.

TIPS FOR COPING

It’s important to have a good support system around you during this time. You’re bruised and swollen and these are in no way final results. The body is going to take time to recovery from such a traumatic event. I read a comment on Reddit stating “The first week you’re going to hate the results. The second week others will start liking it. And the third week you’ll start liking it.” Overall final results will not be realized for months. Be patient with yourself.

If your mind is known to roam be sure to distract yourself. I found reading books to be helpful.

When recovering I found myself more prone to staying inside and away from people. Although it was a natural instinct it’s healthy to remain social for your own happiness. Talk to your family and friends. Keep them in the loop and be sure to get outside daily to receive some much needed vitamin d.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I finally started coming out of my funk a few days after the two week mark. I’m still incredibly swollen but I can see a subtle change for the better. I hope this post made you feel better if you’re struggling.