Cosmetic Surgery and Beauty Magazine #68

feature
perception of appearance over time. ‘Our preoccupation
with appearance extends right across our lives, and
each stage creates different psychological and emotional
responses to our bodies,’ the authors state. ‘As people
age, their appearance concerns focus increasingly on
the face. This was demonstrated in a study involving 24
women ranging in age from 29 to 75 years, of whom 12 had
undergone cosmetic surgery and 12 had not. It was found
that the younger women were concerned more with the
shape and appearance of their bodies, whereas the older
women were preoccupied with their faces.’
To help manage expectations going into surgery, it is
important for the patient to consult with a qualified surgeon
to discuss their individual concerns and motivations for
seeking surgery. By communicating which areas of the face
and body most concerns then, the patient can help the
surgeon tailor the procedural approach to suit their needs
and existing anatomy.
Furthermore, a good skincare regimen and sun
protection following the procedure is recommended.
This will help extend the longevity of the results and help
slow the process of skin ageing by boosting and protecting
skin health.
Prepare for change
psychologically
As well as physically altering the body, surgery that changes
the shape and appearance of the face and body can induce
various psychological effects. It is well documented that,
as well as possible physical complications, patients can
experience psychological reactions immediately following
cosmetic surgery.
Some patients find themselves searching for their more
familiar selves post surgery. It can take some time to adjust
to a “new” face and body, and become accustomed to the
changed figure or face reflected in the mirror.
Certainly, post-surgical unease can compound this
disruption in a patient’s body image. Depression from being
inactive or isolated for a number of days post-procedure,
combined with the effort of coping with any pain, bruising
and swelling can contribute to a preoccupation with
the result of surgery, regardless of whether the surgical
outcome is successful or not.
The key to preventing this is preparation. Being aware
of a psychological shift, due to the physical change, can
help patients prepare for any sense of loss or surprise they
may feel. Given the impact of psychological complications
post-procedure, it is important for both the patient and their
surgeon to thoroughly explore the motivations for change
before the surgery.
As well as
physically altering
the body, surgery
can induce various
psychological
effects. It can take
some time to adjust
to a “new” face
and body
Motivations for surgery
Motivations for contemplating cosmetic surgery can be
complicated. However, it is one of the most important
areas to explore before deciding to go ahead with any
cosmetic procedure.
If cosmetic surgery is considered (even subconsciously)
as a potential solution to fixing a failing relationship or
succeeding professionally, the surgical result is likely to
be disappointing or even cause for regret. Talking to an
independent person, such as a GP or counsellor, can help
tease out the real issues surrounding the desire to alter
their appearance. In this, the patient may avoid undergoing
surgery for reasons that may be inappropriate and which
may compound their psychological issues further.
‘When an individual makes a personal decision based on
a desire to improve his or her confidence and self-esteem
by altering appearance through cosmetic procedures, it
is likely that the person will be happier with the results,’
Honigman and Castle state. ‘Those people having surgery
to please others, and thereby attempt to change their lives
as well, are more often dissatisfied with the results of the
surgery, especially when the anticipated changes do not
occur as they had wished.”
Body Dysmorphic Disorder
People suffering from body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) are
inherently unhappy with the way they look. Sufferers can be
obsessed with either an aspect of their appearance, or their
40 www.cosbeauty.com.au