New Study on Self Esteem and Cosmetic Surgery

A recent study has indicated that cosmetic surgery alone does not boost self esteem. The study, published in the journal Psychological Medicine, concentrated on teenage girls. With the continual controversy about cosmetic surgery for teens, often because of bullying, it’s helpful that psychologists are studying the effects. The outcome of the study showed that teenagers who sought cosmetic surgery were often more disturbed, than the teens that did not have cosmetic surgery. These teens who did have the cosmetic surgery had more instances of depression and anxiety.

The study, however, did confirm that 89% of those who received cosmetic surgery were satisfied with the outcomes of the procedures years later, and 93% said they would have the surgery again. So although patients were satisfied, the changes did not improve overall happiness, nor self esteem or depression. In other words, cosmetic surgery is not a panacea for all that troubles you.

These are important findings. As I have stated before, bullying is a systemic problem endemic to our society. It is the root of the problem that must be addressed. Cosmetic surgery by itself will not help self esteem that has been eroded by bullying. The study did not specify whether the teens had been bullied or not, however. 1,500 girls were studied for 13 years in this longitudinal study. In fact, the 78 girls who had the most signs of depression and anxiety actually had more symptoms over the years after cosmetic surgery.

Here at Little Rock Cosmetic Surgery Center, rhinoplasty and otoplasty (ear surgery) are usually the only procedures I will perform on teenagers, after consultation with the teen and his or her parents. Emotional maturity, realistic expectations and physical maturation are all important reasons for holding off on other cosmetic procedures until a bit later in life. Read more about Facial Surgery for Teens in my previous post.

Call Melinda to set up an appointment with me at 501-227-0707