Is Dissatisfaction With Your Body a Problem?

I came across an interesting article published recently in a professional journal discussing the possibility that people who are very unhappy about the size or shape of their nose could mean that they suffer from a psychiatric disorder called Body Dysmorphic Disorder.  A trained and Board Certified Plastic Surgeon is trained to look for patients who may suffer from Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) for a variety of reasons.  Those with severe BDD can have an inaccurate perception of the way their body actual appears, and this can disrupt their everyday quality of life.  The most common conditions associated with severe BDD is eating disorders such as Bulemia or Anorexia, where the patient may actually see themselves as "fat", when in reality they are extremely thin or emaciated. BDD could conceivably make one obsess about their nose, their legs, breasts, stomach, or other body area to the point where no amount of "correction" would prove satisfying.

Cosmetic Plastic Surgery can provide an increase in one's self esteem, help clothes fit better, and give one confidence. For those with BDD, cosmetic surgery usually does not "solve" the issues they have with their body, and they may be more apt to seek out revisional surgeries to the same area. Making sure that a patient has reasonable and obtainable expectations is key to successful outcomes in cosmetic plastic surgery, and most cosmetic surgeons want to know so they can deliver the results you want. Be sure to discuss your expectations clearly with the Board Certified Plastic Surgeons you consult with, and listen carefully if they advise that the surgery may not provide quite what you expect. No one wants to find themselves caught in an endless cycle of revisional surgery, whether you have had rhinoplasty, liposuction or breast augmentation.

On a good note, we find that patients who have taken time to research their procedure and their surgeon are often the most satisfied.  While the internet can be a great tool for information, not all information is accurate, so ask questions from your surgeon if something doesn't sound right, or if there is something of particular importance to you.  Take time to think over your reasons for wanting the surgery, and what you feel it will do for you.  If you feel your expectations are reasonable, then plastic surgery can quite possibly be a good choice for you.