Preparing for any surgery involves making physical adjustments like changing your diet, quitting smoking, or getting more rest. However, patients also need to focus on preparing themselves mentally for plastic surgeries.
At Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery, our renowned plastic surgeons are here to ensure you feel comfortable throughout your plastic surgery journey. Here are some tips for preparing yourself mentally for plastic surgery.
Know the Facts
Education is empowering. The more you know about your upcoming plastic surgery, the more you can feel prepared and confident. Before your surgery, make sure you completely understand what your surgery entails, its benefits, risks, and potential side effects. Resources like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons provides easy to access information on virtually every plastic surgery procedure.
Consult an Expert about Your Concerns
Unanswered questions or lingering concerns can cause you to worry and affect your mental state. Never be afraid to ask your surgeon questions about any aspect of your upcoming procedure. Even if you have done your homework on your procedure of interest, you will still need the help of a board-certified plastic surgeon to see if it is suitable for you. Our surgeons are happy to address your concerns to ensure your peace of mind leading up to surgery.
Personal Reflections and Goals
Reflecting on the motivating factors for your plastic surgery can help you be in a good state of mind the day of your surgery. You may want to look at old pictures of yourself and write a list of all the reasons you’ve decided to pursue plastic surgery. You should never let anyone else pressure you into a having a cosmetic surgery if you do not also want to have the procedure.
Stay Optimistic
Focusing your optimism is a good way to mentally prepare for surgery. Visualize the you that you want to be after surgery—what will you look and feel like? A good way to remain optimistic is to practice gratitude and mindfulness. Some good mindfulness practices are meditation, yoga, or a gratitude journal. These practices will help you through the recovery process as well. Understanding the recovery process and knowing what to expect will also help you get through the process more easily.
Maintain Reasonable Expectations
Don’t set yourself up for disappointment. Remind yourself that your results are going to take some time after surgery and recovery. Allow yourself time to recuperate and let your results reveal themselves gradually.
During the recovery process, some patients experience emotional times or melancholy moods. The important thing to remember is to practice patience and grant yourself grace as you persist through those feelings.
Secure Some Assistance
Keep in mind that you don’t have to face surgery and recovery alone. Talk to your family and friends about your concerns and goals and let them know the best way they can support you during this journey. Another way to access support is through online support forums. And remember, if you have any questions or concerns at any point in the process, we are here for you!
During your recovery, you may physically need help doing simple tasks, especially if you have small children. Make sure to line up your help from trusted friends and family before your surgery so that you can rest easier knowing that help is on the way.
Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery—Your Plastic Surgery Experts
No matter which plastic surgery procedure you are having, you deserve the support and expertise of a committed plastic surgeon. The expert board-certified plastic surgeons of Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery are here to guide you through all aspects of your plastic surgery journey.
Specializing in surgical and non-surgical procedures of the breast, body, face, and hair, Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery is one of the premier plastic surgery practices in Michigan. Contact us today or call us at (734) 436-2186 to learn more!