As the world observes Mental Health Awareness month, recent studies have shown that approximately 1 in 50 (1) individuals worldwide suffer from Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), a mental health condition that can significantly distort self-perception and lead to distressing consequences.
What role does the aesthetics industry play in encouraging body dysmorphic disorder?
Societal beauty standards and trends exert immense pressure on people to fit unrealistic ideals, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and contribute to mental health issues, such as BDD. However, when approached with care and professionalism, cosmetic enhancements can play a positive role in improving self-esteem and overall well-being.
I share my expert insights from years of experience in aesthetic medicine, emphasizing the critical need for awareness and understanding of Body Dysmorphic Disorder among patients seeking cosmetic treatments:
The prevalence and impact of BDD
Body Dysmorphic Disorder affects up to 2.9% of the general population, however the prevalence is significantly higher among those seeking beauty and cosmetic enhancements, with studies (2) indicating that 11-13% of patients in dermatology and 20% in rhinoplasty settings meet the criteria for BDD.
The distress caused by a person suffering from BDD can be so severe that it impacts their ability to go out socially, it can also impact their day-to-day functioning, and they tend to feel embarrassed and ashamed. They also feel that everyone is looking at their flaws.
There are various types of BDD ranging from mild to severe. Often people with BDD will seek cosmetic medical treatments to fix or correct their perceived flaws.
This suggests that individuals seeking aesthetic enhancements are at a significantly increased risk.
Recognizing the signs of Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Practitioners, family members and friends should look for warning signs that may indicate that a patient is struggling with Body Dysmorphic Disorder.
This can include:
- Excessive focus on flaws: Patients may spend excessive amounts of time worrying about minor imperfections.
- Compulsive checking: Frequent mirror checks or taking numerous selfies to assess their appearance.
- Social withdrawal: Avoiding social situations due to fear of judgment or scrutiny.
- Repeated procedures: Seeking multiple cosmetic interventions without satisfaction.
- Self-harm thoughts: Expressing feelings of hopelessness or suicidal ideation related to their appearance.
Many patients with BDD may not openly discuss their concerns due to feelings of shame or embarrassment, making it essential for practitioners to be vigilant during consultations.
This makes it important for medical practitioners to be more aware of the potential for BDD in every patient they see.
Ethical responsibilities in aesthetic practice
I believe that aesthetic practitioners have an ethical obligation to prioritize patients’ mental health.
It’s essential for anyone seeking cosmetic treatments to feel supported and understood throughout their journey, and often times that responsibility lies with the practitioners who provide the consultations.
As a health practitioner, it’s crucial for me to understand why someone wants a certain procedure done and thoroughly explore their background before prescribing certain treatments.
Practitioners are often the first to identify or come across patients with BDD, and it is their ethical responsibility to advise and act accordingly.
Patients with BDD typically shift their focus from one perceived flaw to another after treatment, and this should already ring an alarm, so continuous evaluation is vital.
Recommended resources for patients
As the field of aesthetic medicine continues to evolve, it is crucial for practitioners to adopt an integrated approach that prioritizes both physical and mental well-being. I underscore the necessity of integrating mental health evaluations into cosmetic consultations, by understanding the motivations behind a patient’s desire for treatment, we can better support their overall health and ensure they are making informed decisions.
While cosmetic treatments can be beneficial for building confidence and enhancing appearance, they should only be considered after thorough evaluation and ongoing support.
Ultimately, the intersection of mental wellness and aesthetic medicine highlights the importance of compassion and responsibility in practice.
Our commitment to patient care extends beyond mere aesthetics; it encompasses a dedication to enhancing lives through understanding and support.
Read more
You can read other Longevity articles on Body Dysmorphic Disorder here:
Read more from Dr. Nikolic
Dr. Nikolic is a regular contributor to LongevityLive.com. You can read more from him here:
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