The decision to have plastic surgery is the beginning of many important conversations. You may choose to discuss this decision with your spouse and close friends, and you’ll sit down with your surgeon to discuss your wishes and come up with a perfect treatment plan. But no conversation can be as challenging as the one you have with your children to explain the process they will also be affected by. Below we’ve shared some important tips on how to approach this conversation.
Honesty Is the Best Policy
You are about to go through some obvious changes and your children are likely to notice that Mommy or Daddy looks a little different. In this case, it’s important to be honest with your children about the process you are going through to avoid any confusion. Most kids are very adaptable and can digest the idea of your surgery, but you should allow them time to process this idea, so it’s best to start that conversation early. Try explaining that there is an area of your body that makes you uncomfortable and you’ve decided to fix it. Explain that the problem is personal, emphasizing that everyone has different desires and the power to make positive decisions for themselves. If they are concerned for your wellbeing, reassure them that your surgery will be safe and that post-surgery you will feel better than ever.
Emphasize Body Positivity to Your Children
You may worry that your decision to pursue plastic surgery may alter your children’s own self-esteem and body image, especially if your children are teenagers. Allow yourself the time to discuss that there is nothing wrong with them, as there is nothing wrong with you. Solidify the concept of inner beauty and confidence being the most meaningful form of beauty. Emphasize that they are beautiful as is and that their bodies are still changing; you have had years to become accustomed to your body, and you are enhancing your inner beauty by choosing a path that will make you feel better about your physical body.
Don’t Share All the Details
This may sound hypocritical after pushing honesty previously, but you don’t need to share all the nitty-gritty details of your surgery with your children. Definitely share what’s about to happen to your body with them, but they don’t need to bear witness to your stitches and bandages or accompany you to the surgery center. It may be a good idea to plan some kid-free time to fully recuperate after surgery. Once you pass the initial recovery phase and the majority of bruising and swelling have gone down, then reunite with them.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact the staff of Plastic Surgery of Palm Beach at our primary location in West Palm Beach. We are proud to serve the neighboring communities of Wellington and Jupiter, as well as other local areas of Florida.
