July 11, 2023 Tags: plastic surgery on the rise, mental health
As plastic surgery becomes increasingly popular and more widely accepted by the public, its impact on mental health, particularly for young women, has become a topic of significant interest and discussion. In 2020, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported that young women in their 20s and 30s accounted for nearly 30% of all plastic surgery patients. As a sizable portion of the plastic surgery population, it’s worth examining the impact cosmetic surgery has on the mental well-being of young women.
While the transformative effects of plastic surgery are apparent, the inner transformation that plastic surgery can have on an individual cannot be overstated. Women seek plastic surgery for a host of different reasons, whether it’s to address imperfections, achieve a more positive body image, minimize physical pain, restore function, or correct congenital abnormalities. Many women also seek plastic surgery to address physical changes caused by factors like weight fluctuation or pregnancy. The reality is that “people just don’t wake up and want a procedure . . . People have tried to change that thing about them before, but some things are just not changeable without surgery,” writes the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Cosmetic procedures provide a way for women to shed any negative emotions about themselves and their body.
A growing body of research indicates that cosmetic surgery has positive effects on the mental health of those who choose to go under the knife. In fact, relevant studies suggest that a majority of patients who undergo surgery are satisfied with the outcome of their procedures. More importantly, researchers have also found that individuals cited a decrease in feelings of anxiety and depression following surgery. The positive psychological effects of cosmetic procedures can be attributed to a combination of factors, including improved self-perception, reduced self-consciousness, and an increased sense of control over one’s appearance.
Regardless of your reasons, it’s important to note that a holistic approach to plastic surgery — one that promotes inner beauty and outer confidence simultaneously — is always best. Approaching surgery with the right mindset and realistic expectations, will ensure that you make the right decision for yourself and have a positive plastic surgery experience. Are you interested in a cosmetic procedure? Contact Dr. J. J. Wendel Plastic Surgery and book your consultation today.
