Psychology & Ethics of Plastic Surgery
What to Do if Your Teenager Wants Plastic Surgery
Is your teenager contemplating plastic surgery. Don't panic. Here are some things to consider if your teenager is requesting plastic surgery.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is estimated to affect 1-2% of the world's population, and is unfortunately and inextricably tied to the psychological aspects of plastic surgery. Of those people who could be considered "plastic surgery addicts", it is likely that a large portion may be suffering from the psychological disorder known as BDD.
The Emotional Aftermath of Plastic Surgery
Too many prospective plastic surgery patients fail to consider the emotional aspects of cosmetic surgery. There are positive emotional effects , to be sure, but most people tend to forget about the possible psychological ramifications of undergoing major surgery to improve one's looks. The phenomenon of post-op depression is real, but its effects can be minimized if patients are prepared for the possibility.
Unmet and Unrealistic Expectations
Your expectations have a lot to do with the "success" of your surgery. How realistic they are is one thing. Yet you should also consider how well prepared you are for the possibility of your expectations not being fully met, even if they were realistic to begin with.
Ethics in Plastic Surgery
Like all doctors, plastic surgeons must take the Hippocratic Oath, and are bound by the same laws regarding patient consent, privacy, and the like. However, plastic surgery presents its own unique set of ethical issues that in large part have more to do with psychology than with surgery.
Your Self-Image and Plastic Surgery
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons gives insight into the relationship between plastic surgery and self-image, including who and who may not be a good candidate, psychologically speaking, for plastic surgery.
