According to the American Psychological Association, attractive people are perceived as more intelligent, healthy, sociable and dominant than the average person. People who undergo cosmetic procedures may be seeking those advantages in addition to a self-esteem boost. Four decades of scientific studies have confirmed that most patients are satisfied with their plastic surgery results. However, the psychological effects of people who have had cosmetic surgery have not been as heavily studied.
Negative psychological effects of cosmetic surgery can include depression, self-destructive behavior and adjustment difficulties. These temporary effects usually occur during the healing process, before the final result of the procedure is apparent to the patient. Patients with unrealistic expectations are more likely to be dissatisfied with the final results of their cosmetic procedures.
La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre’s plastic surgeons suggest that in order to avoid any negative psychological effects of cosmetic surgery, you should make sure your goals are realistic. Additionally, they recommend you do some research before considering any operation and listen to your surgeon during your consultation.
The plastic surgeons at the La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre offer these tips to minimize the psychological impacts of cosmetic surgery during your healing process:
1. Establish a strong support system (with friends and relatives).
2. Set up your recuperation space with everything you need, including diversions, food, water and a telephone.
3. Stay near a bathroom while healing.
4. Keep the end result in mind.
5. Eat well, drink plenty of water and get lots of rest.
6. Avoid alcohol.
7. Let your support team help you while you heal.
8. Follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions about medications and activity.
9. Don’t judge your appearance while you’re still swollen, bruised or stitched.
10. When in doubt, call your surgeon.
