Plastic Surgery and Body Dysmorphia: What You Need to Know

Summary: Plastic Surgery and Body Dysmorphia are growing concerns in the mental health field, and it's important to have an understanding of the disorder and how to best prevent and treat it.

Plastic Surgery and Body Dysmorphia: What You Need to Know

Body Image and Society’s Perception

Our society places a great deal of emphasis on physical beauty and appearance. It’s no surprise that this can lead to people becoming increasingly self-conscious about their own body image. It’s an issue that affects both men and women, and is often pushed to the forefront of conversations as people seek to achieve an idealized look.

It is understandable that many people turn to plastic surgery as a way to improve their appearance. In many cases, plastic surgery can be a safe and effective way to achieve desired results. Unfortunately, in some cases plastic surgery can become a tool to mask underlying mental health issues.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder, or BDD, is a mental health disorder that is characterized by an obsessive focus on one's own physical appearance. People with BDD have an exaggerated perception of flaws in their physical appearance, and have difficulty seeing themselves in a positive light.

BDD has been linked to a variety of negative outcomes, including low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. People with BDD often feel ashamed and embarrassed, and may use plastic surgery as a way to cope with their perceived flaws. Unfortunately, this only serves to reinforce the idea that the individual’s appearance is the source of their unhappiness and that plastic surgery is the only way to fix it.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

In order to best prevent and treat BDD, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms. Some common signs and symptoms of BDD include:

• Preoccupation with a perceived physical defect • Avoiding social situations • Compulsively checking the mirror or in reflective surfaces • Excessive grooming or clothing changes • Comparing oneself to others • Inordinate amount of time to get ready • Seeking reassurance from others • Extreme self-criticism

These signs and symptoms can manifest in different ways, and in some cases, may not be immediately apparent. However, if a person expresses extreme unhappiness with their body image and repeatedly seeks out plastic surgery, it’s important to be aware of the possibility of BDD.

Treatment and Prevention

BDD is a serious mental health disorder, and treatment should be sought as soon as possible. Treatment of BDD typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and medications. An important part of treatment is to help the individual understand the difference between their perceptions and reality.

It is also important to take steps to prevent BDD from developing in the first place. This includes teaching young people to be accepting of their own bodies, promoting an environment of acceptance and support, and providing education on the risks of plastic surgery.

Conclusion

Plastic surgery and body dysmorphia are growing concerns in the mental health field, and it’s important to have an understanding of the disorder and how to best prevent and treat it. With the right treatment and support, individuals can learn to accept themselves and their bodies, and achieve greater overall mental health.