The number of cosmetic procedures in the US has dramatically increased over the last decade with an estimated 18 million undergoing surgical or minimally invasive procedures in 2018 alone.
Studies have identified two primary stimuli for seeking cosmetic surgery: 1) to raise self esteem and 2) to improve image satisfaction (i.e., self image).
While these factors are both considered by the plastic surgery community to be reasonable motives, it is important to recognize the potential effect that an underlying mental health disorder such as Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), a mood disorder, or a personality disorder may have on the desire to seek treatment.
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