Cosmetic rhinoplasty in body dysmorphic disorder

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Plastic Surgery
• Psychology

Background:

• Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) affects approximately 5% of patients seeking cosmetic surgery.
• BDD patients often experience dissatisfaction or worsening symptoms post-surgery.
• Identifying BDD in cosmetic surgery candidates is crucial for managing expectations and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the frequency of BDD in UK patients requesting cosmetic rhinoplasty.
• To compare BDD patients seeking rhinoplasty with those in psychiatric clinics.
• To identify characteristics differentiating BDD patients who undergo rhinoplasty from those who do not.

Main Methods:

• A screening questionnaire was used to assess BDD in patients requesting rhinoplasty.
• A comparative study was conducted between patients without BDD who had successful rhinoplasty and BDD patients in a psychiatric clinic.
• Demographic, psychological, and behavioral factors were analyzed.

Main Results:

• 20.7% of patients requesting rhinoplasty showed possible signs of BDD.
• A subgroup with sub-clinical or mild BDD may be satisfied with cosmetic rhinoplasty.
• BDD patients desiring rhinoplasty are younger, more depressed, anxious, and preoccupied with their nose compared to non-BDD patients.

Conclusions:

• Patients with BDD seeking cosmetic rhinoplasty are a distinct population with specific psychological and behavioral traits.
• BDD patients exhibit higher levels of anxiety, depression, and body preoccupation.
• Surgeons should be aware of BDD indicators to identify patients who may have a poor prognosis with cosmetic rhinoplasty.