Depression after LBL/TT

kim621
on 4/6/11 3:29 am - TN
 I have waited several days to post this because I don't want to be a downer on such a positive, helpful, encouraging board.  However, I do want to put this out there in case others have gone through this.
I had my LBL/TT on Friday, March 25th, so I'm about 11 days out from surgery.  The surgery went very well, no complications, and the doc is pleased with how much he was able to accomplish.  I have been a total wreck since the surgery.  Physically the first few days were really bad, but I expected that.  It's the emotional side that has surprised me.  I have barely even looked at my new flat tummy and lower body b/c I'm either crying, having a panic or anxiety attack, or just wishing I'd never done this.  I have never had this reaction to any surgery before.  I don't know what is wrong with me.  I think one part of the problem is that I had to return to work to soon (9 days after surgery).  But I have a desk job and everyone here at the office has been supportive.  I don't really know why I'm so sad/anxious.  Everyone on here seems to be so thrilled after this procedure and I feel like the oddball.
Any thoughts?
    
Laurieostrom
on 4/6/11 3:42 am
First of all,  thank you for posting this.  I am scheduled for my TT and BA on April 19th, so it's good for those of us coming behind you to know this is something  that could come up.  I haven't had this experience first hand, but I've been reading a ton, and i found that this is a common "symptom".  In fact, just yesterday, I was on Dr. LaMonaco's web site and I read the following.  I hope it helps you to feel that you are "normal"...

Your emotional status before and after surgery
Weight loss surgery represents a major change in a person’s life. Often, there is a period of time needed to adapt to these new changes. Friends and family may have mixed feelings about the weight loss surgery, plastic surgery, or both. Take time to work through these issues before surgery so that you and those around you are comfortable with your decision.

Many patients may experience depression or anxiety in the months following surgery. Dr. Lomonaco and his staff are familiar with this phonomena and are available to help you gain acceptance of your new body image. This is a process that may take several months to resolve.

Enlist your doctor’s help to explain the procedures and the recovery process to those close to you. Many times, they are more concerned about your comfort and safety than you are!

Plastic surgery after weight loss is a big decision, but can go a long way to give you a feeling of normalcy, control, and help restore your self-confidence.

cleos_mom
on 4/6/11 6:33 am - phila., PA
the depression is from the general anesthesia, it will go away in a few days, i get lilke that after every surgery
good luck
Susan
ShrinkingBecky
on 4/6/11 9:41 am - KY
 My first thought was the same as Cleo's Mom - it's an after-affect of the general anesthesia. The stuff affects our moods, hair, skin...the whole kit and kaboodle, for goodness only knows how long afterwards. I'm eight days s/p LBL, and while I haven't had the crying jags or really radical mood swings, I've noticed several other things that I know are related to the anesthesia. 

My recommendation is to drink as much water as you can to help flush the stuff from your system.
Emily F.
on 4/7/11 8:53 am
I get really cry-ey after surgery. Hoping you will feel better soon.
misseye
on 4/8/11 11:05 pm
I was pretty crazy for a few weeks after my surgery.  I had complications and a second surgery and that really added to my anxiety.  It is a rough time to get through.  I also didn't end up having enough help with driving and the kids, so I was very stressed out.  And i think being under for so many hours really messes with your head.

But it passes.  I thought I looked awful, but it took months to see the results well and then to start getting back in shape so I didn't feel so flabby. 
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