Scoping Review of Mental Health Outcomes of Cosmetic Procedures Among the Saudi Population

To comprehensively examine the mental health outcomes associated with cosmetic procedures among the Saudi population, with a particular focus on psychological well-being, self-esteem, anxiety, body image, and quality of life.

This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. A structured search was performed across international databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, in addition to national Arabic databases. Studies investigating the psychological outcomes of both surgical (rhinoplasty and body contouring) and non-surgical cosmetic procedures among Saudi populations were included. A total of 19 studies involving approximately 9,705 participants met the eligibility criteria and were analyzed.

The findings demonstrated that cosmetic procedures were frequently associated with improvements in self-esteem, body image satisfaction, social functioning, and overall quality of life. Several studies reported enhanced psychological well-being and increased confidence following cosmetic interventions. However, some individuals, particularly those with pre-existing psychological vulnerabilities, unrealistic expectations, or low baseline self-esteem, continued to experience anxiety, dissatisfaction, and psychological distress after the procedures. Variations in outcomes were influenced by procedure type, demographic factors, and psychosocial characteristics.

Cosmetic procedures may contribute to positive psychological and quality-of-life outcomes among many individuals in Saudi Arabia; however, adverse psychological effects may persist in vulnerable groups. These findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive preoperative psychological assessment, realistic expectation management, and multidisciplinary support to optimize outcomes and minimize potential mental health risk.