Surgery is a big deal. It’s natural to experience a range of emotions before and after your procedure.
So here’s what you can expect to feel, day by day, during your recovery.
Phase 1: Anxiety (Pre-Op)
Phase 1 of the post-surgical emotional timeline is often anxiety. The anticipation of a surgical procedure can cause trepidation and worry. This anxiousness may lead to difficulty sleeping, lack of focus, and physical symptoms like rapid heart rate or perspiration
You might also experience doubts about yourself and your ability to cope with the situation. Yet, it’s normal to feel this way, as it’s your body’s natural response to stress. In fact, it can help you stay aware of any changes in your physical health following surgery.
Deep breathing and meditation can help reduce the stress associated with post-operative anxiety. Thinking positively about the recovery process can also help. Remind yourself that you will get through this.
Phase 2: Fatigue (After the Procedure)
Fatigue is caused by the body’s natural response to healing from surgery. While it can be frustrating and hard to deal with, it’s important to remember that this phase will pass, along with the effects of anesthesia and pain meds.
The best way to manage fatigue while recovering from surgery is by listening to your body. Taking short naps throughout the day can help restore energy levels.
Likewise, stay hydrated and get some light exercise, even if it’s just going for a short walk around the block. Dr. Nidal Masri encourages his patients to ambulate as soon as possible after their operation to encourage blood circulation.
So, remember that it’s normal to feel overwhelmed when faced with post-surgical fatigue. But rest assured that this phase usually doesn’t last long. With patience and self-care, you will soon feel more energetic.
Phase 3: Irritability (6 Days – 3 Weeks)
Irritability often comes from physical pain, discomfort, and fatigue. It’s often coupled with frustration about being unable to do things. It can also come from feeling overwhelmed by the changes in lifestyle and fears about recovery.
But that feeling of irritability after surgery is normal in the healing process and should not cause undue concern.
To help manage any post-surgical irritability, practice relaxation techniques such as:
- Deep breathing
- Muscle relaxation
- Yoga
- Meditation
Maintaining good nutrition and hydration can also help reduce irritability by promoting better sleep quality. Plus, it keeps energy levels higher throughout the day.
Phase 4: Obnoxious (3 Weeks – 3 Months)
At this point, you may notice that your scars are still noticeable. Yet, they may look quite different from how they were before. Still, there is redness or other discoloration, and the treated area may not have been “set” yet. This might remind you how the area used to look and make you question why you decided to undergo the procedure.
But take a deep breath and remember that your body is still healing. It will take time for everything to even out and look more natural.
Also, look at previous pictures to remind you of your progress. Likewise, remembering why you decided on this procedure in the first place can help keep your perspective throughout this annoying timeline phase.
Phase 5: Relieved (3+ Months)
As the swelling and bruising from the surgery subsides, you can finally appreciate your results and feel at ease. The final stage of recovery brings back a sense of normalcy and confidence in your appearance.
At this phase, you’ll feel relief and joy that you made it through. After months of preparation and anticipation, you can reap the rewards and move on with your life.
You may also feel more connected to yourself because your surgery has given you something to celebrate, even if it was a difficult journey.
Just remember to take this time for yourself, as you deserve it. It’s okay if not everything feels perfect yet; healing takes time, so be kind and patient with yourself throughout the journey.