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Conditions

Aesthetic surgery · Body, breast and appearance

Body dysmorphic disorder

Recognise overwhelming appearance concerns and access the right treatment.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

Body dysmorphic disorder is a mental health condition in which someone spends a great deal of time worrying about appearance flaws that are often barely noticeable to others.

Possible symptoms

Repeated comparison, mirror checking or avoidance, camouflaging, skin picking and repeatedly seeking procedures can disrupt work, relationships and social life.

Causes and associated factors

The exact cause is unknown; family susceptibility, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bullying or trauma may be associated.

Diagnosis

A doctor or mental health professional assesses time spent worrying, repetitive behaviours, daily impact and risk of self-harm.

Tests

There is no specific biological test; clinical assessment also checks for depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders and suicide risk.

Course of the condition

Without treatment symptoms may persist or worsen and can be accompanied by depression, self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

Care options

Cognitive behavioural therapy, often including exposure and response prevention, and sometimes an SSRI antidepressant are effective; a cosmetic procedure does not treat BDD.

When to consult

Seek help if appearance worries take much time, cause distress or drive repeated attempts at correction; request this assessment before a cosmetic procedure.

Urgent help

Suicidal thoughts, intent to self-harm or being unable to stay safe requires immediate crisis support or emergency care.

Questions for your doctor

  • Should a medical cause be investigated before any procedure?
  • Which non-surgical options are suitable?
  • What result is realistic and durable?
  • Which risks, scars and follow-up should I expect?
  • Which signs after a procedure require urgent care?

Continue reading

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.

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