Many patients don't realize the toll that plastic surgery takes on their well-being. With a few simple measures, you can ensure emotional support following your procedure.
Typically,
if a patient considers the emotional aspects of plastic surgery, they focus on the renewed self-esteem and sense of confidence that they'll acquire as they enjoy their newly formed body. Many don't realize that adverse emotional reactions can set in also, especially immediately following the procedure. Your body is recovering from a major interruption to its daily functions. It was bombarded with anesthetic medications as well as other prescriptions which are designed to reduce pain and swelling. Also, your body won't look as you've envisioned it right away. You will probably be swollen and bruised, and your body needs time to settle down and recover before the full effects of your surgery can be seen. All of this physical turmoil can cause your emotions to go haywire, so what can you do to help yourself through this potentially difficult phase?
Develop Your Emotional Support System
Your spouse, family members, and friends can provide a strong support system. Simply talking about your feelings and anxieties with another adult (especially one who has already undergone plastic surgery), can be very calming. You'll be reassured that you're not alone!
Organize Your "Recovery Station" Before Surgery
Choose your favorite sofa or recliner and move an end table nearby. You'll want to pile the end table with your favorite books, magazines, snack foods, bottled water, the TV remote, and any other items you'd like to use as you relax. You'll probably want to be near the bathroom, since you'll be drinking plenty of water.
Follow Your Surgeon's Discharge Instructions
Your surgeon will send you home with prescriptions medications and instructions for caring for your incision site. Be sure that you follow the instructions to the letter: take your medication on a regular basis, change your bandage and clean the site when instructed, and avoid scratching or itching since extra contact with the site can cause infection.
Be Patient with Yourself as You Recover
Your body needs time to heal. It's been through a rigorous marathon in order to achieve your new look, and you want to give it all the time it needs to recover completely. Let your family and friends wait on you until you feel ready to get back up and about. Don't worry if it takes more time that you expected to regain your energy. You focus on resting until you feel up to getting back into your daily routine.
Eat Healthy, Nutritious Food
You may not feel like eating much in the first couple days after surgery. Plan to drink lots of water and eat light snacks as you are able. Soon, you'll feel hungry again. Your body needs the extra vitamins and minerals as it recovers, so choose snacks and light meals that are packed full of fresh fruits, vegetables, carbohydrates, and protein. Not only will this help your body to heal faster, but it will help you feel emotionally better too.
Call Your Doctor with Any Questions or Concerns
Whether you're experiencing physical or emotional symptoms related to your recovery from plastic surgery, contact your doctor with any concerns. He'll provide support and answers to set your mind at ease.
