Seven Psychological Effects of Cosmetic Surgery

psychology of cosmetic surgery

Cosmetic surgery is not a strange concept for today’s generation. It focuses on enhancing the physical appearance through surgical and medical techniques. People get cosmetic surgery for various reasons. These reasons may include defying the look that comes with age, doing away with social stigma, or augmenting one’s physical appearance.

The wellness industry involving cosmetic surgery has seen its boom without any significant downward trend. Despite its popularity though, there are people who question whether going under the knife is beneficial or not.

Here are some of the psychological effects of cosmetic surgery.

 1. Increased Self-Confidence

The better you feel, the better you will perform. When you feels good about your physical appearance, you will likely be more willing to try new things and take risks. Successful surgery can boost your self-confidence, making it easier for you to face challenges in life in new ways. It makes you more confident about your skin. You can get the boost you need to become more adventurous, outgoing, and sociable.

   2. Enhanced Mental Health

Studies show that cosmetic surgery brings about positive outcomes in addressing anxiety, depression, and social phobia normally caused by a lack of self-confidence. Satisfaction in life and goal achievements also improves after surgery. Many people who go through surgery increase their happiness. A common procedure done on children is correcting a cleft lip or cleft palate. Popular procedures among adults include facelifts, removing baggy skin around the eyelids, and remodeling the nose.

   3. Increased Self-efficacy

Self-efficacy refers to a person’s belief in his or her capabilities to achieve goals. It has been found that cosmetic surgery lessens the negative feelings a person may have about himself or herself. Having a more positive self-concept is helpful in achieving your goals. Many people who have undergone cosmetic surgery have greater control of their lives and have found more opportunities in their professional fields

  4. Improved Social Status

There’s a common notion that people who look good receive preferential treatment over those who don’t. Some individuals get cosmetic surgery for this very reason. Do they want to be above the people they live and work with? Not necessarily. Most of people who do cosmetic surgery just want their appearance and personality to match. They may want their physical look to be more normal so they can avoid undue attention and ridicule. When the procedure is done properly, these individuals can blend in and focus on the tasks they need to do.

  5. Expectations vs. Reality

In some cases, the results of cosmetic surgery fails to meet the person’s expectations, and this can lead to disappointment and frustration. Individuals who consult with a specialist before the procedure and come up with a realistic idea of what they want to achieve often have more realistic expectations and better experiences after their procedure. It is best to visit specialists like the Vera Clinic to make sure that your time, money, physical health and mental well-being are not compromised.

  6. Random Episodes of Depression

After surgery, your life may not become better overnight. In fact, some patients undergo post-surgical depression. It is good to know, though, that this is temporary. If you experience low moods and a lack of motivation after surgery, do not have to suffer alone. Instead, surround yourself with individuals who understand your circumstances and supported you in getting the procedure.

   7. Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

People with BDD worry excessively about perceived flaws in their appearance. If not properly diagnosed prior to surgery, body dysmorphic disorder may worsen after surgery.  An individual with BDD may have constant desire to change his or her physical appearance even after going under the knife once. The individual may think there are still physical defects and imperfections to be fixed, which may contribute to him or her becoming “addicted” to surgeries.

These are just a few of the psychological effects of cosmetic surgery. Undergoing the process is a personal choice. Take a considerable amount of time to think about the long-term effects of the process. Remember that your physical appearance, time, money, and mental health may be impacted. Ask yourself if cosmetic surgery is something that you really want for yourself. If you decide to go with the procedure, make sure that you enlist the services of a specialist for the best results.  

 

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