[The therapeutic function of the aesthetic surgery]

Area of Science:

• Psychological impact of aesthetic surgery
• Holistic patient care in plastic surgery
• Patient-surgeon relationship dynamics

Context:

• Aesthetic surgery extends beyond physical alteration to encompass psychological and emotional dimensions.
• The World Health Organization's definition of health includes multiple aspects, which aesthetic surgery aims to preserve or restore.
• The patient-surgeon relationship is multifaceted, involving surgical, psychological, and legal considerations.

Purpose:

• To analyze the unique patient-surgeon relationship in aesthetic surgery.
• To explore the psychological underpinnings and therapeutic functions of aesthetic surgical procedures.
• To highlight the collaborative roles of surgeons, psychiatrists, and legal experts in managing patient demands.

Summary:

• Aesthetic surgery is presented as a therapy for the 'soul' as much as the body, primarily targeting patient psychology.
• The plastic surgeon acts as a physician, engaging in dialogue and refining clinical approaches based on patient demands.
• Psychic repair is a key, often subconscious, goal for patients seeking aesthetic surgery, requiring careful information exchange and mutual understanding.

Impact:

• Aesthetic surgery offers significant social and human benefits, viewed as irreplaceable by many patients.
• The procedure is demanding and complex, contrary to media portrayals of ease.
• All involved parties must recognize the ambitious nature of aesthetic surgery and the central role of the patient.