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Identifying the body-dysmorphic patient in aesthetic surgery
1dr_hodgkinson@bigpond.com
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
|December 6, 2005
Summary
Body dysmorphophobia (BDD) is a psychiatric condition affecting up to 20% of cosmetic surgery seekers. Early recognition and psychological referral are crucial for surgeons to avoid patient dissatisfaction and potential harm.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Plastic Surgery
- Psychology
Background:
- Body dysmorphophobia (BDD) affects a significant portion of patients seeking cosmetic surgery.
- BDD presents diversely, making it challenging for plastic surgeons to identify.
Observation:
- Patients with BDD often seek cosmetic surgery to alleviate body image distress.
- Despite objective surgical outcomes, these patients typically remain dissatisfied.
Findings:
- A substantial percentage of cosmetic surgery patients (up to 20%) may have BDD.
- BDD patients are at risk of 'overoperation' and dissatisfaction.
- BDD patients have a documented propensity for litigation and aggression towards surgeons.
Implications:
- Plastic surgeons must be vigilant in screening for BDD.
- Referral for psychological counseling and psychiatric evaluation is essential for BDD patients.
- Deferring cosmetic surgery for patients with BDD is advised to prevent adverse outcomes and protect surgeons.