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Cosmetic breast augmentation and eating disorders
V V McIntosh1, E Britt, C M Bulik
1Bulimia Treatment Study, University of Canterbury.
The New Zealand Medical Journal
|April 27, 1994
Summary
Women with eating disorders seeking cosmetic surgery often have body image distortion. Treatment should address these issues, and screening for eating disorders is recommended before cosmetic procedures.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Plastic Surgery
- Body Image Research
Background:
- Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, are associated with significant body image disturbances.
- Cosmetic surgery is sometimes sought by individuals experiencing body dissatisfaction.
Observation:
- Two cases are presented of women with active anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa who underwent cosmetic breast augmentation.
- Both patients' desire for cosmetic surgery stemmed directly from body image distortion inherent in their eating disorders.
Findings:
- Body image distortion and dissatisfaction are primary motivators for cosmetic surgery in women with eating disorders.
- Cosmetic surgery does not resolve the underlying body image issues associated with eating disorders.
Implications:
- Women with eating disorders require integrated treatment addressing body image distortion and unrealistic expectations of cosmetic surgery.
- Routine screening for eating disorders and body image disturbances is crucial during the assessment phase for cosmetic surgery candidates.