Typical Emotions and Sensations Following Aesthetic Surgery

Aesthetic, or cosmetic, surgery is meant to leave patients with very positive feelings. Like any invasive procedure, plastic surgery has the potential to leave behind a wide range of emotions. Physiological changes and reactions afterward, combined with anticipation and assumptions, can bring about different emotional states. The good news is that there are ways to prepare for an emotional or psychological reactions and best practices to respond. A thorough consultation with Dr. Sarraga and his staff will help you understand the realities of the surgery and help you maintain realistic expectations.

What Emotions Will I Experience After Surgery?

Cosmetic procedures can range from minimally invasive to more involved surgical procedures. The goals of aesthetic surgery are minor for some and quite drastic for others. So, with those factors in mind, patients may feel pleased, impatient, hopeful, frustrated, elated, depressed, or confused. You may feel any or all of these emotions, and they are common. It is important to determine what procedures are right for you and how you can have a successful recovery.

Checking Assumptions about Cosmetic Surgery

The emotions that may follow aesthetic surgical procedures can vary. A responsible surgeon never fails to convey that a procedure will not turn you into a completely different person. A comprehensive discussion between a doctor, like Dr. Andrés Sárraga MD, and a patient serves to dispel any unrealistic expectations of a procedure’s results. Yes, surgery can produce gratifying results as long as patient intentions are in line with realistic expectations.

Being an Informed Patient

Surgeons can offer a wealth of information in preparing you for surgery. You should also prepare yourself ahead of time with questions relating to their specific procedure, goals, or concerns that you can ask your doctor. The good news is that we live in an age with lots of resources available to patients to help them know what questions to ask. Some of these may include: what is the extent of the surgery? What are the hazards? How long is recovery, and how will it unfold? Surgical practices, hospitals, and patient testimonials often present useful perspectives for those considering aesthetic procedures.

Never Minimize Depression

Some patients may experience depression after surgery. You may feel more tired than usual, have trouble following through with tasks, struggle with sleep, or have regret over the procedure. Patients should know this can happen. Talking about your feelings and concerns will help us help you through these feelings of uncertainty. As your body recovers from the procedure, patience is key; let your body heal – most initial recovery takes a good six weeks and six months for final results. Dr. Sarraga and his team will be there with you every step of the way to support you.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are interested in a cosmetic procedure but have some lingering questions or doubts, our team at Andrés Sárragas MD Plastic Surgery are here to put your mind at ease. Take the first steps toward scheduling a consultation by filling out our online contact form today.