Videoconferencing Dysmorphia: The Impact on Self-perception and Desire for Cosmetic Procedures

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Psychology
• Sociology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic led to increased reliance on videoconferencing and digital communication.
• Image-enhancing filters and constant digital self-exposure became widespread.
• A potential link between digital self-image and interest in cosmetic procedures was hypothesized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association between increased videoconferencing and filter use and interest in cosmetic procedures.
• To determine if heightened exposure to one's digital self-image correlates with cosmetic intervention inclination.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional questionnaire survey of US adults recruited via Amazon's Mechanical Turk.
• Assessed self-reported demographics, videoconferencing usage, filter use, and attitudes toward cosmetic procedures.
• Utilized Likert scale responses, chi-squared tests, and multivariable logistic regression for analysis.

Main Results:

• High rates of videoconferencing (88.6%) and filter use (68.1%) were reported.
• Videoconferencing (55.9%) and filters (57.8%) influenced interest in cosmetic procedures.
• Frequent self-viewing strongly correlated with interest in cosmetic procedures (OR 5.034). Higher income predicted filter use (OR 2.436).

Conclusions:

• The study identifies 'videoconferencing dysmorphia,' a link between digital self-viewing and increased interest in cosmetic procedures.
• Digital self-awareness driven by virtual interactions may prompt consideration of cosmetic interventions.
• Findings are crucial for dermatologists to understand patient motivations and manage expectations.