Author:- Mr. Ritesh Sharma
An open heart surgery alters your life forever. The open heart surgery scars are not only physical but also emotional. The scars formed by this invasive surgical procedure make an individual undergo a journey of resilience and triumph. While open heart surgery scars do make you feel awful after the surgical procedure is over, with the help of healthcare professionals and your loved ones you can get through this agonizing challenge.
In this blog, we will cover everything related to open heart surgery scars in its entirety. We will shed light on the physical open-heart surgery scars, emotional healing, coping mechanisms, and more. This blog will underscore the resilience and growth patients need to show after undergoing this changing process of open heart surgery.
Understanding Open Heart Surgery
Open Heart Surgery is also referred to as cardiac surgery. In this invasive medical procedure, surgery is performed for various heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease- STEMI and N-STEMI, heart valve disorders that prevent the backflow of blood in the heart, and congenital heart defects. During this process, the chest of the patient is opened exposing the heart to allow surgical intervention. Through this process, the lives of patients are saved and their heart function is improved. However, the aftermath of this surgery is rather gruesome.
After the surgical procedure is complete, patients are left with visible open heart surgery scars as a reminder of this resilient journey of triumph. These scars can affect the individual in more than one way.
The Physical Open Heart Surgery Scars
The physical open heart surgery scars serve as a tangible reminder for the individuals of the battle fought within during the surgery. These scars are mostly seen along the chest or sternum and vary in size and appearance depending on the specific procedure and individual healing process.
In the initial stages, these open heart surgery scars are reddish in color. These scars are initially tender and fragile with a dark color. However, as time passes, they fade in color, but alas, never fully disappear. If there is one thing that’s good about these scars then it is their nature of symbolizing the resilient journey fought by the heart patient. The embodies the strength within the patients to fight a tough challenge with ample strength to overcome this adversity.
Embracing Emotional Healing
While the open heart surgery scars are visible physically as a tangible thing, they are also emotional scars plaguing the individual from within. The procedure of open heart surgery can leave you with deep emotional imprints that are only healed by the support of healthcare professionals and your loved ones.
Hence, if you ever head an open heart surgery, do not hesitate to seek professional and personal help. Many individuals find solace in sharing their stories, so that can also contribute to emotional healing. Join a community to share your stories and make your voice heard. This way you can get rid of the mental agony subjected by the open heart surgery on you.
Find Support and Community
One tends to feel isolated post an open heart surgery. To steer clear of this crippling loneliness, you must find support and community. Connect with people who have undergone similar surgical procedures as you. This will help resolve the emotional scar left by open heart surgery on you. Furthermore, in the company of similar patients as you, you will find a different solace and a sense of togetherness.
Coping Mechanisms
Coping mechanisms for open heart surgery scars vary from person to person. However, some particular coping mechanisms used by individuals in this condition are as follows:-
- Meditation and Deep breathing exercises: Meditation and deep breathing exercises come in handy as a coping mechanism for open heart surgery scar. It relaxes your mind and ensures that less and less strain is put on your heart.
- Practice your Hobbies: To get through the physical and mental trauma of the surgery, you can practice your hobbies whether they are dancing, cooking, singing, reading books, watching movies, or listening to music.
- Spend Time in Nature: You can also roam around and spend time in nature. This will contribute to your mental peace and help you get through the trauma of the surgery.
Resilience and Growth
Despite all the hardships open heart surgery scars put you through when you emerge victorious from it, it is a testament to your resilience and growth. Many people who undergo open heart surgery don’t think of their scars as marks of weakness. Instead, they think of them as badges of courage and resilience. So, you must also have a positive attitude towards life after getting your open heart surgery done and think of it as a rebirth.
In conclusion, open heart surgery scars take a heavy physical and mental toll on you. It is a challenging situation that makes people succumb. However, to emerge victorious out of it, you must adopt a steadfast approach and think positively in life. Through self-care, connection, and embracing the journey of healing, you can navigate the scars of open heart surgery with grace and resilience, emerging stronger and more grateful for the gift of life.