Cosmetic procedures and mental health : a double-edged sword?

The number of cosmetic surgical procedures that are being undertaken worldwide, including breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, liposuction, labiaplasty, implants and rhytidectomy, is on the rise (Ozkur et al., € 2020; Ross, 2019). Utilisation of minimally invasive techniques, such as dental work, electrolysis, injectable botulinum toxin, facial filler injections, dermaroller and chemical peels, is likewise increasing (Bowyer et al., 2016; Ozkur et al., € 2020). Reasons for this growth include the desire to improve aesthetic appearance, physical health, psychosocial well-being, personal life and career progression (Maisel et al., 2018). The mental health outcomes of cosmetic procedures, however, are not always positive, particularly for people with pre-existing mental health conditions. For example, Auer (2020) reports that many people who request cosmetic procedures are living with mental illness such as body dysmorphia, or eating disorder, or depression and anxiety. Likewise, von Soest et al. (2012) found that symptoms of depression and anxiety, together with a history of deliberate self-harm, parasuicide and illicit drug use were predictors of prospective cosmetic surgery – the outcomes of these surgical interventions, however, did not include alleviation of the symptoms of mental illness. Finally, Wimalawansa et al. (2014) identified the need for more frequent acute care following surgery, including cosmetic surgery, for people with mental health conditions. Such examples raise questions about the outcomes for people with mental ill-health who undertake cosmetic surgery.