Psychological issues associated with breast augmentation

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Psychology
• Medical Ethics

Background:

• Breast augmentation is the most frequent cosmetic surgical procedure in the US, with a 55% increase from 2000-2006.
• Despite rising numbers, psychological aspects and impacts of breast augmentation remain understudied.
• Adverse psychological outcomes following breast augmentation are a significant concern for healthcare providers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review psychological issues associated with breast augmentation.
• To highlight the need for psychological screening in cosmetic surgery patients.
• To discuss findings related to suicide in the context of breast augmentation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on psychological aspects of breast augmentation.
• Analysis of trends in cosmetic surgery procedures.
• Examination of psychological disorders relevant to cosmetic surgery.

Main Results:

• Breast augmentation is the leading cosmetic surgical procedure in the US.
• There is a notable lack of understanding regarding the psychological characteristics of patients and the psychological impact of the surgery.
• Suicide findings related to breast augmentation warrant attention.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare providers must consistently screen patients for psychological disorders, such as Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), before cosmetic procedures.
• Pre-operative psychological assessment is crucial for patients undergoing breast augmentation.
• Further research is needed to understand the psychological impact of cosmetic surgery.