So you’ve decided to pursue the plastic surgery procedure you’ve always wanted. It’s an exciting time and there’s lots to do to get ready.
But have you prepared yourself mentally for what’s to come? At Northeastern Plastic Surgery, we have seen that patients who are both physically and mentally prepared for surgery experience the best outcomes. Here are 8 tips to help you get in the right frame of mind before surgery.
Learn the facts about the surgery including what it takes to prepare, what’s actually involved with the procedure, and what your recovery will be like. The more knowledge you have, the more relaxed and confident you can be throughout the process.
How much are you expecting your appearance to change as a result of the procedure? Setting your expectations too high will only lead to disappointment. Your surgeon should be upfront about the results you can expect to achieve. If your surgeon is making big promises that seem too good to be true, then it may be time to find another surgeon.
Check in with yourself to make sure that you are having the surgery because it’s what you want and not what other people want. Plastic surgery creates permanent changes to your appearance, so be sure you know the reasons why you’re doing it before you commit.
Realize that you won’t look like a brand-new person the day you come out of surgery. You may be bruised, swollen, and bandaged. As your body heals over weeks and months, the results of the surgery will come into view. Be patient if you aren’t completely satisfied with the results. With some procedures, like nose reshaping, it can take several months or even a year for your nose to settle into its final shape.
Physical health can help improve mental health. The weeks leading up to your surgery, start developing simple healthy habits. Go for walks, drink more water, eat more fruits and vegetables, reduce alcohol consumption, stop smoking, and get plenty of sleep. You’ll feel better knowing that you’re in good physical condition before having surgery.
You don’t want to go into surgery with any unanswered questions lingering in the back of your mind. So be sure to speak up if you are unsure about anything during any step of the process. A professional and caring board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Fodero, will be happy to address your concerns and make sure all of your questions are answered to your satisfaction.
You may feel depressed, regretful, unmotivated, or “blue” for about a week after surgery. This is completely normal. Your body has just experienced a trauma. These feelings are the body’s way of keeping you still and quiet as you recover. Know that these feelings are temporary. If the depression doesn’t lift, or gets worse, then see your primary care physician.
Probably the most important thing you can do to be mentally prepared is to choose a skilled surgeon you trust who is board-certified in plastic surgery. When you meet with your potential surgeon, make sure they’re really listening to your needs and concerns. Nothing can beat the peace of mind that comes with trusting your surgeon to do what’s best for you.
For more tips on choosing a surgeon, check out 7 Essential Elements of Your Plastic Surgery Consultation. And if you’re interested in nose reshaping, then also check out 5 Must-Ask Questions for Your Rhinoplasty Surgeon.
Northeastern Plastic Surgery understands your desire for a beautiful, youthful looking body and facial appearance. We use the latest plastic surgery techniques to perform a variety of surgical procedures. Dr. Fodero and the staff are very friendly, helpful, and available to answer any questions you may have. Please contact us today to learn more about the services we offer.
