If appearance worries become repetitive and disruptive, seek an assessment before arranging surgery
A review estimated body dysmorphic disorder in about 15% of plastic-surgery patients and 13% of dermatology patients; roughly three-quarters of affected participants were women. The condition involves preoccupation with perceived flaws that others barely notice and that disrupt daily life. Repeatedly moving from one perceived flaw to another may not be resolved by changing appearance. An assessment can help guide the decision.
What it takes
The source estimates tens of RMB for a psychiatry or clinical psychology consultation in China. Taking this step before booking surgery can feel difficult.
What you may gain
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 33 studies estimated body dysmorphic disorder prevalence at 15.04% in plastic-surgery patients, ranging from 2.21% to 56.67% across studies. In practical terms, that is about 15 of every 100 plastic-surgery patients, with individual-study estimates ranging from about two to 57 per 100. Their mean age was 34.54 years with standard deviation 12.41, and 74.38% were women. In dermatology patients, prevalence was 12.65%, ranging from 4.52% to 35.16%; mean age was 27.79 with standard deviation 9.03, and 76.09% were women. The authors recommended proactive assessment by plastic surgeons and dermatologists, identification of high-risk patients, and multidisciplinary management.
Context & considerations
Study estimates varied enormously, partly because of different questionnaires and populations. The useful conclusion is that the condition is common enough to warrant assessment, not that 15.04% is an exact universal rate; this is why the evidence is rated B. Most people seeking cosmetic treatment do not have this disorder. This entry concerns persistent, repetitive worries that interfere with work or social life. Clues include spending long periods checking or concealing a body area, avoiding people or photographs because of it, and shifting to another perceived flaw after a procedure.
Research & references
Ribeiro RVE (2017). Prevalence of Body Dysmorphic Disorder in Plastic Surgery and Dermatology Patients: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-017-0869-0