Plastic surgery patients happier after surgery
March 13, 2013
Patients who undergo aesthetic surgery are very likely to find themselves happier than before their procedure. These are the findings of the newest, largest, and longest-term study on the psychological outcomes of plastic surgery.
The study from Germany took place over the course of a year and involved:
- 544 patients who had undergone aesthetic surgery
- 264 people who had considered aesthetic surgery but did not go through with it
- 1000 individuals from the general population who never had interest in aesthetic surgery
The researchers first assessed the mental health of these different groups. They found that aesthetic surgery patients did not significantly differ from the other groups in terms of their psychological well-being-they were not more depressive or dissatisfied than the control groups. The researchers also employed tests which showed that most of the patients had realistic goals and expectations. (It should be noted that patients with more serious body dysmorphia are precluded from undergoing plastic surgery and thus could not be subjects in this study.)
In follow-up examinations after three, six, and twelve months, the patients who opted for surgery showed significant improvements in their mental and emotional well-being. Specifically, researchers noted positive changes in areas such as “anxiety, social phobia, depression, body dysmorphia, goal attainment, quality of life, life satisfaction, attractiveness, mental and physical health, well-being, self-efficacy and self-esteem.” These changes were observed in contrast with the group of subjects who had decided against aesthetic surgery.
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To learn more about the innovative treatments offered at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, contact our office by calling (949) 617-1168 or by filling out the consultation request form below.
Importantly, the research also did not indicate negative psychological outcomes from plastic surgery.
At the Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery, your total well being is just as important to us as your surgical result. Dr. Larry Nichter and Dr. Jed Horowitz put great emphasis on building realistic expectations with their patients, as this lays the foundation for greater satisfaction and self-image after plastic surgery.
Wow! Not only am I thrilled with my results, I also must say that this experience was so much easier than I thought it would be! From the virtual consultation, to the virtual appointments that I had after my surgery… they made it so easy to check in with my doctor. I don’t live in Newport, but it didn’t matter. I was still able to get the surgery that I wanted there! 10/10 would recommend!!
Autumn M.
Take the Next Step
As soon as you step into our Newport Beach office, our welcoming staff will carefully listen to your concerns and guide you through your treatment journey. The board-certified plastic surgeons at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery will be happy to discuss your cosmetic goals, review the pros and cons of the treatment you are considering, and create a personalized treatment plan that will deliver the best outcome for you.
To learn more about the innovative treatments offered at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, contact our office by calling (949) 617-1168 or by filling out the consultation request form below.
