In recent years, the increasing accessibility and social acceptance of cosmetic procedures have led to a surge in individuals seeking plastic surgery. While many find satisfaction and enhanced self-esteem through these procedures, a subset develops what is often referred to as “plastic surgery addiction.” This term describes a compulsion to undergo repeated surgeries, driven by psychological factors rather than medical necessity. This article delves into the psychological underpinnings of plastic surgery addiction, its implications, and approaches to management, drawing on scientific research.
Defining Plastic Surgery Addiction
Plastic surgery addiction, clinically known as Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), is characterized by an obsessive focus on perceived flaws in appearance, often unnoticeable to others. Individuals with BDD persistently seek out cosmetic surgeries to correct these perceived imperfections, leading to a cycle of surgeries without achieving satisfaction (American Psychiatric Association, 2013, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders).
Psychological Factors and Risk Indicators
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD): Central to understanding plastic surgery addiction is BDD, a mental health condition involving obsessive preoccupation with minor or imagined physical defects. BDD sufferers often believe that surgical intervention is the only solution to their distress, leading to repeated procedures (Phillips, K.A., 2004, American Journal of Psychiatry).
Low Self-esteem and Social Influences: Low self-esteem and the influence of social and media portrayals of beauty standards can fuel dissatisfaction with one’s appearance, pushing individuals towards multiple cosmetic surgeries in the quest for idealized beauty standards (Nedic, A., et al., 2010, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery).
Addictive Personality Traits: Individuals with tendencies towards addictive behaviors may be more prone to developing an unhealthy reliance on plastic surgery as a means of coping with emotional or psychological issues (Brito, M.J., et al., 2010, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery).
Implications of Plastic Surgery Addiction
The consequences of plastic surgery addiction extend beyond financial strain, encompassing a range of psychological and physical health risks. These include increased dissatisfaction with one’s appearance, heightened anxiety and depression levels, and the potential for postoperative complications or dissatisfaction with surgical outcomes (Castle, D.J., et al., 2002, Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry).
Management and Treatment Approaches
Effective management of plastic surgery addiction requires addressing the underlying psychological issues. Treatment strategies include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is effective in treating BDD by challenging distorted beliefs about appearance and reducing compulsive behaviors related to cosmetic surgery (Veale, D., & Neziroglu, F., 2010, Body Dysmorphic Disorder: A Treatment Manual).
- Medication: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have shown efficacy in managing BDD symptoms, reducing the obsessive-compulsive behaviors associated with the disorder (Phillips, K.A., & Hollander, E., 2008, Psychiatric Clinics of North America).
- Educating and Counseling: Providing patients with realistic expectations and educating them on the potential risks and limitations of cosmetic surgery is crucial. Psychological counseling can also help individuals explore the root causes of their dissatisfaction and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Role of Influencers
In the digital age, the influence of social media on individual self-perception and beauty standards has grown exponentially. Influencers, with their vast followings and curated portrayals of perfection, play a significant role in shaping societal ideals of beauty. This digital phenomenon has sparked a surge in individuals seeking cosmetic enhancements to emulate these often-unattainable standards, leading to concerns about plastic surgery addiction. This article explores the intersection between social media influencers and the rise of plastic surgery addiction, underpinned by psychological research and societal observations.
The Influence of Social Media on Beauty Standards
Social media platforms have become pivotal in setting and spreading contemporary beauty ideals. A study by Fardouly et al. (2015) in the Journal of Adolescent Health highlights the impact of social media on body image concerns, noting that exposure to idealised images contributes to dissatisfaction with one’s appearance. Influencers, who often present a polished, enhanced version of reality, compound these effects, creating a cycle of comparison and dissatisfaction among their followers (Perloff, R.M., 2014, Psychology of Popular Media Culture).
The Path to Plastic Surgery Addiction
Plastic surgery addiction, though not formally recognized as a diagnosis, refers to a compulsive desire to undergo cosmetic procedures to achieve and maintain an idealized appearance. This compulsion is closely related to Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), a condition characterized by an obsessive focus on perceived flaws in one’s appearance (American Psychiatric Association, 2013, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). The relentless pursuit of perfection, fueled by influencer-driven beauty standards, can lead individuals down a path of repeated surgeries, chasing an ever-elusive ideal.
The Role of Influencers in Cosmetic Surgery Trends
Influencers often share their cosmetic procedures with followers, from non-invasive treatments like fillers and Botox to more significant surgical alterations. This transparency can normalise and even glamorise plastic surgery, presenting it as a routine method of self-improvement. Montes and Willett (2019) in Aesthetic Surgery Journal discuss how influencers can sway public perception, making cosmetic enhancements appear more accessible and desirable. The endorsement of particular procedures by influencers can create trends that further amplify the pressure on individuals to conform to these new standards.
Psychological Impacts and Societal Implications
The psychological impacts of this phenomenon are profound. Continuous exposure to idealised images can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and lead to an increase in cosmetic surgery consultations (Mingoia, J., Hutchinson, A.D., Wilson, C., & Gleaves, D.H., 2017, Body Image). Moreover, the normalization of plastic surgery raises questions about the long-term societal implications, including the erosion of individuality and the perpetuation of unattainable beauty ideals.
Navigating the Digital Landscape: A Call for Awareness and Regulation
To mitigate the potential harms associated with plastic surgery addiction and the influence of social media, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Increasing awareness of the psychological effects of social media consumption, promoting digital literacy, and encouraging a critical engagement with online content are essential steps. Additionally, there is a call for more stringent regulations around the promotion of cosmetic procedures online, ensuring influencers disclose any enhancements and provide realistic portrayals of beauty.
Conclusion
Plastic surgery addiction, rooted in psychological conditions like Body Dysmorphic Disorder, represents a complex interplay of emotional, social, and cultural factors. Recognising and addressing the underlying psychological motivations is essential for effective treatment and prevention. By fostering a broader understanding of beauty and self-worth beyond physical appearance, society can help mitigate the factors contributing to this addiction.
The relationship between social media influencers and plastic surgery addiction highlights the complex dynamics of modern beauty standards and their impact on individual behavior and psychological well-being. As society continues to grapple with these challenges, fostering a culture of acceptance, diversity, and realistic beauty ideals becomes paramount in safeguarding mental health in the digital age.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
- Phillips, K.A. (2004). Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Recognizing and Treating Imagined Ugliness. World Psychiatry.
- Nedic, A., et al. (2010). Influence of the Mass Media on Body Image Dissatisfaction and Eating Disorders. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
- Brito, M.J., et al. (2010). Prevalence of Body Dysmorphic Disorder Symptoms and Body Weight Concerns in Patients Seeking Abdominoplasty. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
- Castle, D.J., et al. (2002). Does cosmetic surgery improve psychosocial wellbeing? Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry.
- Veale, D., & Neziroglu, F. (2010). Body Dysmorphic Disorder: A Treatment Manual.
- Phillips, K.A., & Hollander, E. (2008). Treating Body Dysmorphic Disorder with Medication: Evidence, Misconceptions, and a Suggested Approach. Psychiatric Clinics of North America.
- Fardouly, J., Diedrichs, P.C., Vartanian, L.R., & Halliwell, E. (2015). Social comparisons on social media: The impact of Facebook on young women’s body image concerns and mood. Journal of Adolescent Health.
- Perloff, R.M. (2014). Social media effects on young women’s body image concerns: Theoretical perspectives and an agenda for research. Psychology of Popular Media Culture.
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
- Montes, J.A., & Willett, E.D. (2019). Influencer Impact: Do Celebrity Endorsements Influence Facial Plastic Surgery? Aesthetic Surgery Journal.
- Mingoia, J., Hutchinson, A.D., Wilson, C., & Gleaves, D.H. (2017). The relationship between social networking site use and the internalization of a thin ideal in females: A meta-analytic review. Body Image.
How to get in touch
If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au
