What is Body Dysmorphia? And why has it become so prevalent?

We have all heard about body dysmorphia and may through it around lightly in conversation with friends but it is not something to be taken lightly. Body dysmorphia is a psychological disorder characterised by an obsessive focus on perceived physical flaws that are often not noticeable to others. People with body dysmorphia may spend excessive amounts of time focused on their appearance and perceived flaws, causing distress and anxiety.

When it comes to aesthetic treatments, such as surgery or non invasive treatments, body dysmorphia can be particularly problematic. For instance, dermal fillers are injectable substances that can be used to volumise or contour areas of the face and body. While these treatments can be effective in improving the appearance of the skin, they can also exacerbate feelings of body dysmorphia and lead to facially distorted features. An individual with body dysmorphia who is unhappy with the appearance of their lips may seek out lip fillers to enhance their pout. However, because they are so fixated on their perceived flaw, they may become dissatisfied with the results of the treatment and continue to seek out more and more injections, leading to an exaggerated, distorted appearance.

Social media can have a significant impact on body dysmorphia, as it can create unrealistic beauty standards and perpetuate a culture of comparison. We are constantly bombarded with images of flawless, edited, filtered faces on social media, which can make us feel inadequate and self-conscious about our own appearance. Individuals with body dysmorphia may seek out treatments in an attempt to meet unrealistic ‘beauty standards.’ This can lead to a dangerous cycle of never feeling satisfied with one’s appearance and constantly seeking out more treatments, which can ultimately lead to facially distorted features.

A recent survey of 460 participants found that those who reported spending more time on social media were more likely to be interested in aesthetic treatments and had a more positive attitude towards them. Another study published in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, explored the impact of social media on patient seeking cosmetic surgery. The study found that patients who were influenced by social media were more likely to have unrealistic expectations about the results of their surgery, which could contribute to feelings of body dysmorphia if those expectations were not met. Interestingly, in regards to dermal fillers, a study published in the Journal Dermatologic Surgery found that patients with body dysmorphic disorder were more likely to request cosmetic treatments, and were more likely to report dissatisfaction with the results of those treatments. Again, another study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology explored the relationship between fillers and facially distorted features inpatients with body dysmorphia. The study found patients with body dysmorphia were more likely to seek out excessive filler injections, which could lead to a distorted appearance. The facts speak volumes and these studies highlight the importance of being mindful of the impact of social media and celebrity influence on us.

Ultimately, we should prioritise promoting realistic beauty standards and be transparent about the risks and potential downsides of aesthetic treatments.The relationship between aesthetic procedures, social media, and body dysmorphia is a complex one, and requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the underlying psychological issues contributing to body dysmorphia, while also promoting responsible use of aesthetic treatments prioritising patient safety and well-being.