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Body image concerns of reconstructive surgery patients: an underrecognized problem
D B Sarwer1, L A Whitaker, M J Pertschuk
1The Edwin and Fannie Gray Hall Center for Human Appearance, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia 19104, USA.
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|April 29, 1998
Summary
Reconstructive surgery patients report body image concerns similar to cosmetic surgery patients. Some reconstructive patients, particularly those with scars, show signs of body dysmorphic disorder, necessitating screening.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Plastic Surgery
- Body Image Research
Background:
- Body image is a significant factor in patient satisfaction after plastic surgery.
- Reconstructive surgery patients often have unique body image concerns due to objective deformities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess and compare body image concerns between reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery patients.
- To identify the prevalence of body dysmorphic disorder symptoms in reconstructive surgery candidates.
Main Methods:
- Forty-three reconstructive surgery patients completed validated body image assessment tools.
- Responses were compared to a control group of patients seeking cosmetic surgery.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found in overall appearance dissatisfaction between groups.
- Reconstructive patients reported lower perceived health and investment in appearance.
- Seven reconstructive patients (scar revision) exhibited symptoms consistent with body dysmorphic disorder.
Conclusions:
- Body image dissatisfaction is prevalent in reconstructive surgery patients, similar to cosmetic surgery patients.
- Screening for body image concerns and body dysmorphic disorder is crucial for reconstructive surgery patients with deformities.
- Plastic surgeons can play a key role in identifying these concerns and facilitating referrals for mental health support.