The Psychological Impact of Aesthetic Surgery: A Mini-Review

Abstract

The purpose of this summary is to outline the available research on the psychological factors associated with aesthetic surgery. Aesthetic procedures such as abdominoplasty, breast augmentation, face lift, and rhinoplasty are shown to have unique preoperative and postoperative psychological factors. Depression and anxiety may occur after aesthetic procedures with an increased incidence in patients with certain depression prone personality traits. The pre-existing psychology of patients is also an important contributing factor to consider when evaluating surgical candidates. Pre-existing mood disorders such as depression and anxiety are shown with higher incidence in individuals pursuing aesthetic procedures and can predispose such individuals to worsening mood symptoms postoperatively. This paper aims to equip surgeons with a better understanding of the common psychological factors seen in the field of aesthetic surgery so patients can be better supported throughout all parts of the surgical process.

Depression, Anxiety, Body Dissatisfaction, and Eating Disorders in Plastic Surgery Patients

“…The theoretical review demands that plastic surgeons gain a better understanding of their patients' psychological burdens during consultation to maximize mood benefits after surgery. 5,6 This helps inform and regulate postsurgery expectations, as well as reduce the likelihood of mental health issues arising. 19 Therefore, it is necessary to promote effective and assertive communication in the doctor/patient relationship, clarify what plastic surgery entails before and after the procedure, and educate on what can realistically be achieved physically in the patient's body to avoid conflicts with their over-expectations and misconceptions about the operation.…”

“…Regarding the presurgery evaluation of patients, it is essential that surgery is indicated for healthy and stable individuals from a psychological and physical standpoint, as the aim is to ensure the benefits of the intervention outweigh the risks involved. 5 , 6 Therefore, a baseline evaluation is important. Of the total number of individuals evaluated in the sample, it was found that none showed signs of anxiety, and only 3.3% of patients displayed pathological body discomfort, moderate depression, and risk of developing an ED.…”

“…The theoretical review demands that plastic surgeons gain a better understanding of their patients’ psychological burdens during consultation to maximize mood benefits after surgery. 5 , 6 This helps inform and regulate postsurgery expectations, as well as reduce the likelihood of mental health issues arising. 19 …”

“…There are differences in postsurgery psychological reactions; however, few differences have been identified in the presurgery psychology of patients. Depression and anxiety are the most common mental health diagnoses in patients undergoing facial and breast plastic surgery, and anxiety is more common in patients undergoing abdominoplasty procedures 5 ; a higher incidence of dysmorphia and body dissatisfaction has been identified in patients undergoing rhinoplasty and breast augmentation. 6 – 8 Regarding eating disorders (EDs), 90%–95% of the affected population are women, which represents the largest percentage of the plastic surgery population.…”

ChatGPT and Rhinoplasty Recovery: An Exploration of AI's Role in Postoperative Guidance

“…The AI-generated responses provided insight into the emotional struggles that patients may encounter post-rhinoplasty, including feelings of unfamiliarity with their changed appearance. These emotional challenges are well-recognized in cosmetic surgery patients and underscore the significance of addressing patients' psychological well-being 9,10 . Surgeon-patient communication and psychological support were highlighted as essential components in managing emotional concerns.…”