The mental and emotional state of patients and family members has a dramatic effect on healing after surgery. People with a healthy outlook heal better. People with a strong support system are happier with their results. They have family members who are there for them mentally or emotionally. They also seem to have more realistic expectations.
Guess what? Not surprisingly, there is actually some medical science behind this. Stress and anxiety impact healing by causing vasoconstriction, or decreased blood flow. They also release stress hormones such as cortisol. Whether that stress is internally induced anxiety or comes from external stressors in the patient’s personal or professional life, it can significantly affect how a plastic surgery incision heals. Scars can take 6-12 months to heal, so it’s very important to address the psychological component right away.
That’s why, in addition to the physical preparation, proper nutrition, and all the basics, addressing emotional concerns and having a caring environment following surgery are all so crucial to proper healing. In my practice, I worry when people have no one to help them or don’t tell their family the truth about their surgery. Yes of course, we respect their decision but I always prefer they have someone to help them.
Dr. Sam Speron
When I first published The 7 Critical Questions to Ask Before Letting Any Surgeon Touch You, I had no idea that it would be so popularly received. Since its publication, this brief guide has helped thousands like you to more safely navigate the world of cosmetic surgery. The 7 Questions have been updated and a bonus section, Applying the 7 Questions, has just been added. Be my guest to read, learn and share.
