People with body dysmorphic disorder may turn to plastic surgery as a way to address their perceived defects, but they may also be dissatisfied with the results and continue to seek additional procedures in an attempt to correct perceived imperfections. People may need to consider whether the potential risks of plastic or cosmetic surgery outweigh the benefits, as well as how the surgery may affect their physical and mental health.
Plastic surgery
addresses areas of dysfunction or irregularity, such as congenital disabilities or trauma. This cycle of patients seeking cosmetic surgery and other procedures can lead to an excess of plastic surgery and can aggravate symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder.So what are the mental health effects of plastic surgery? The key takeaway here is that while cosmetic surgery research should not be considered a total substitute for other modes of mental health treatment, most people who undergo plastic surgery procedures, such as breast augmentation, tend to feel happier and show fewer signs of negative mental health after the procedures. For example, a person may want to undergo plastic surgery to treat severe burns or congenital disabilities or to rebuild the breast after a mastectomy. With all the talk about plastic surgery improving appearance, depression should be at the bottom of the list of concerns during recovery. Of course, it would be irresponsible to suggest that plastic surgery is an appropriate treatment for problems such as anxiety, eating disorders or body dysmorphia.
Bruce Freedman was quick to point out that correlation is not causation, but stated that plastic surgery can play an important role in alleviating depression in some patients. In short, while plastic surgery procedures can offer benefits, it's important for cosmetic surgery patients to approach them sparingly and focus on improving overall well-being rather than seeking perfection at any price. In the study, 31% of patients who opted for plastic surgery and who were taking antidepressants stopped taking them six months after the procedure. While plastic surgery can improve a person's physical appearance, it's important to note that they can also have negative effects on mental health.
It's important to approach cosmetic surgeries with realistic expectations and to work with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon who can provide guidance and help ensure the safety of the procedures. Understanding preoperative psychology and post-surgical mood changes is critical for plastic surgeons to effectively advise patients, communicate expectations clearly, and help decide if patients are the right candidates for surgery. The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery notes that plastic surgery aims to treat areas of the body that don't work as they should or improve appearance.
