Getting cosmetic surgery is a major event in your life, and, like any other major milestone, it can pose challenges and might even feel like an emotional rollercoaster at times. However, studies have found that being prepared for these temporary emotional effects after cosmetic surgery can help you not only to heal faster but also to be more satisfied with your results.
Before your breast augmentation, tummy tuck or other cosmetic surgery, take some time to prepare yourself both mentally and physically so you can enjoy a simpler recovery and beautiful results. To help prepare for your emotional recovery after cosmetic surgery, follow these important tips.
1. Understand That the “Post-Surgery Blues” Is Normal
First, it is important to recognize that the post-surgery blues can happen, even if you are normally a happy-go-lucky person, and it is entirely normal to feel a bit down after undergoing any type of surgical procedure. Remind yourself that these feelings are only temporary and that you have already taken steps to help make your emotional recovery as easy as possible.
2. Anticipate Your Needs Ahead of Time
A little prep work can go a long way when it comes to optimizing your physical and emotional recovery after cosmetic surgery. If you know that a cluttered space bothers you, for example, spend some time cleaning and organizing your recovery room before your procedure so you won’t feel guilty resting up later.
Similarly, make sure you have easy access to healthy foods and drinks while recovering. Consider making big batches of healthy recipes that you can freeze in pre-portioned containers and just pop in the microwave when ready to eat. That way, if you feel down and don’t want to put much effort into your meals, you can still have something nourishing and satisfying to eat.
3. Have a Strong Support System in Place
Cosmetic surgery recovery can be made smoother and simpler if you have a good support system so you don’t feel like you have to do it alone. A support system could be in the form of a friend you can call up when you’re feeling down, or a spouse or partner who can help pick up the extra slack around the house while you get the rest you need. Maybe it’s an excellent nanny whom you trust to help with childcare. Whomever it may be, don’t be shy about asking for some extra help for a few days after your procedure.
4. Don’t Judge Your Results Too Soon
Resist the urge to stare at yourself in the mirror in the first few days or even weeks after cosmetic surgery. Healing and recovery will take time, so give yourself a mental break, too. Trust in the process and look forward to seeing the beautiful results you’re hoping for in the end. In the meantime, focus on helping your body heal and your mind stay positive.
Meditation, aromatherapy and listening to calming music are great ways to help ease your mind while recovering from cosmetic surgery.
5. Get out of Bed
Sure, you will have to physically take it easy for a bit after your cosmetic surgery, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get up out of bed and walk around the house or block (once your cosmetic surgeon clears you for light exercise). It’s healthy, both mentally and physically, to move around and begin to have some semblance of a normal routine again.
Dr. James Koehler at Eastern Shore Cosmetic Surgery provides today’s most popular cosmetic surgery and nonsurgical options. Choose from breast enhancement procedures such as breast augmentation, body sculpting procedures including liposuction and tummy tucks, and facial procedures such as facelifts, BOTOX® Cosmetic, and much more. We are dedicated to providing outstanding care and results. Come in for a visit and see our difference for yourself!
