Experts explain how excessive discomfort with image can be a health problem
Body dysmorphia, also popularly known as “image distortion syndrome,” is an exaggerated and unusual preoccupation with appearance. Usually associated with plastic surgery, the disease usually affects men and women in the same proportion who, in search of the perfect image, resort to aesthetic procedures.
Plastic surgeries are often seen as a great option to change body dissatisfaction. However, people with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), due to the disease, can enter an eternal cycle of procedures. “This happens because, due to self-image distortion, a critical feature of the person with this disorder, the person may fall into a loop endless surgeries and more surgeries, until we reach a ‘perfection’ that never comes”, comments plastic surgeon Dr. Hugo Sabath.
pursuit of perfection
The search for plastic surgery to make the look the same as very famous people it is also related to dysmorphia. In these cases, the person may have an excessive and irrational concern with appearance and believe that looking like a famous person or correcting one body part will improve their self-esteem and their life as a whole.
However, it is important to remember that Body Dysmorphic Disorder is not just dissatisfaction with appearance, but an excessive and persistent worry that can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. The patient sees himself in a distorted way of reality and begins to see “deformations” in his body and face that no one else sees, the “imaginary defects”.
Consequences of the disorder
In Body Dysmorphic Disorder, preoccupation with one or more nonexistent or subtle defects in appearance causes severe distress and/or impairs functional capacity. People usually spend many hours a day worrying about a supposed defect, which could be anywhere on the body.
“In a pre-surgical visit the doctor is able to distinguish whether the patient has dysmorphic features or not, so it is important that the doctor always explains all the risks and never promises an established result. The indication for dysmorphic features is referral to the psychologist or psychiatrist even before performing the surgery,” explains Dr. Hugh Sabbath.
Disorders associated with dysmorphia
In cases of dysmorphia, it is common for the patient to have other psychological disorders. Among the most common are:
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD);
- Depression, anxiety and mood disorders;
- Personality disorders;
- Food problems;
- Use of chemicals.
consult an expert
A lawyer specializing in medical and hospital law and director of Clínica Libria, Dr. Beatriz Guedes cautions that any surgery is a serious procedure and must be performed with planning and care. It is essential that the patient consults a specialist in plastic surgery to evaluate if the procedure is suitable for her and which is the best technique to use.
“It is important to emphasize that all plastic surgery procedures have risks and possible complications. Therefore, it is necessary for the patient to be aware of these risks and to discuss them with the plastic surgeon all possible consequences of the procedure,” concludes Dr. Beatriz Guedes.
Edited by Gabriela Dallo
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
