Postoperative Depression in Plastic Surgery

Because of the pain, discomfort, and effects of anesthesia as it wears off, it is not uncommon for plasticsurgery patients to experience postoperative depression.  However, the “blues” will eventually disappear as the symptoms become less and less apparent until they can resume their normal activities.

Certain medications (pain killers and antibiotics) that are taken after plastic surgery have been known to cause constipation and nausea, resulting to more irritability.  If these happen, a patient should consult her doctor and ask for possible treatments to at least minimize the symptoms.

During the first few weeks, most patients—especially those who will have invasive cosmetic surgeries such as traditional tummy tuck and breast lift—will have to restrict their activities.  For some, it may be difficult to sleep since they have to find their “comfortable” position or are required to sleep with their heads (if they will have facial plastic surgery) elevated to promote good blood circulation.

The swelling and bruising can also aggravate the postoperative depression, especially if these temporarily “distort” the face.  For example, facelift patients will have these symptoms on their face for a few days to weeks; many of them may be worried about their appearance but they have to remember that these are just temporary.

And for rhinoplasty patients, there may be some bruising especially around their eyes; their nose will also have residual swelling that can last for several months. 

As mentioned earlier, certain medications can lead to constipation, intestinal cramps, bloated feeling, and other temporary digestive problems.  Some doctors recommend a mild stool softener like Dulcolax and Colace, while others suggest natural remedies and diet or foods rich in fiber like the Chinese radish.

Drinking plenty of water will not only hydrate the body but also help it flush out the residual medications; this will also minimize swelling in the incision site, which in turn promotes quicker recovery.

But in rare occasion, postoperative depression does not go away.  If it does not resolve after a few weeks, a patient should immediately consult her plastic surgeon who may refer a therapist.

For massive weight loss patients who have undergone body lift surgery to remove the hanging skin, some of them may experience depression because of the significant changes in their body.  Some also find it hard to adapt as their food consumption, which used to be their source of comfort, should now be taken in moderation.

Patients who find it hard to adapt to their new appearance should talk about their situation with a therapist or behaviorist.