Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Cosmetic Surgery

BodyWhen you look in the mirror, do you constantly find something just absolutely terrible with your body? You may be struggling with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD).

Plastic surgeons are becoming increasingly familiar with patients struggling with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). The American Society of Plastic Surgeons survey recently noted that BDD may be “under diagnosed”. A surgeon should question your body image problems during consultation.

When interested in a cosmetic procedure and experience some type of body dysmorphic disorder the surgeon should consider and evaluate their patients for BDD. The ASPS are linking personal, social, or occupational impairment in relation to extreme dissatisfaction in body images to mental health problems- including very serious conditions such as depression, and suicide risk.

Many plastic surgeons and cosmetic professionals stated they are fairly familiar with the disorder and aware of the diagnosis. Studies have shown about two percent of the general population experiences Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and as high as ten percent in patients seeking cosmetic procedures.

Many surgeons stated they sometimes addressed body image problems with their patients while others stated they rarely routinely did. Some surgeons collaborated with psychiatrists and psychologists to have a better understanding of BDD.

Many patients inquiring about cosmetic procedures have or experience some type of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). Studies have shown that after having a procedure they remain dissatisfied with their results and seek more procedures. This is a result from the effects of the disorder. As a result, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is considered a “contraindication” for plastic surgery in other words it can hinder your ultimate expectations. Many surgeons stated they would refuse a patient they suspect with BDD because of these circumstances.

A patient with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) should be referred to a psychiatrist or psychologist. Some surgeons have reported refusing treatment and received verbal altercations and minor legal threats. It is ultimately up to the surgeon to decide whether you are a good candidate for a cosmetic surgery or procedure, they are seeking your best interest not theirs.

With the different studies performed this suggest more surgeons should receive more education about management and recognitions in BDD. It should be a standard topic with every patient during their consultation to understand realistic expectations.

Dr. Shienbaum is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience in all forms of Cosmetic Plastic Surgery, including Liposuction, Tummy Tucks, Mommy Makeovers, Breast Augmentation, and Brazilian Butt Lift. He provides services for the entire Tampa area, including St. Pete, Clearwater, and Bradenton, Florida. 

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Have you heard the term “skin rejuvenation” and wondering what it might be?

Skin RejuvinationSkin disorders, the sun, aging, and heredity are all contributors to skin irregularities on the body. The most common skin irregularity complaint is those on the face and facial region. These can include scars from acne, wrinkles, freckles and sunspots, pigmentation changes from again, or even visible blood vessels.

With aging, skin can often feel more loose, lack firmness, and cellulite starts to form in certain areas.

Set up a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, there are many different treatments to help improve your skin irregularities. Not all skin irregularities can be treated but here are some that might be treatable-

Dynamic wrinkles: dynamic wrinkles are the ones describes as having from your expression lines. They remain in the folds of the skin, even when the skin is not moving. With a facial expression or movement, they deepen.

Static wrinkles: Visible wrinkles that do not change with facial movement

Pigmentation: Freckles, darken spots of skin excluding birthmarks, sun spots (usually related to sun exposure)

Loss of skin tone: Sagging and/ or weakening of supportive skin collagen thus, relating in loss of skin firmness, and can produce cellulite

Do you think one of the above mention skin irregularities is something you may be able to improve? Your next question may be well what is the cost of something like this?

Unfortunately, there is not a set price for procedures like these, since everyone is so diverse, one person’s wrinkles may require a very minimal amount of work while others require more. When addressing the costs most surgeon will go over, facility cost, the surgeon’s fee, and prescriptions and medications. There could be additional costs. It is always recommended to sit down with your surgeon and ask for a break down if one is not provided.

As you come to a decision on a board certified plastic surgeon, keep in mind your comfort with the surgeon’s experience is just as important as the final cost of the procedure.

Call Brandon Plastic Surgery for your free initial consultation to see if you’re a candidate for a chance of skin rejuvenation– (813) 681-5709.

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Smoking & Cosmetic Surgery

Smoking and Cosmetic SurgeryWhile smoking can be a tricky habit to kick, you might want to after reading this if your inquiring any cosmetic surgery. While after surgery complications are unlikely, they can happen. You want to reduce the chances of these as much as possible. Smokers have a slower healing process and can sometimes cause wound complications. The last thing you want after having a cosmetic procedure is for it to heal incorrectly.

Nicotine is the one to blame. Evidence suggests nicotine has been traced to many post-surgical complications. It slows the overall healing process down because of the lack of oxygen in your blood. When healing, your body needs extra rest, oxygen, etc. By smoking you are preventing your body from healing adequately. Some might say they smoked and did not have any problems, but that is not the case for all. You are recommended to quit smoking as soon as you consider having a cosmetic surgery, some surgeons won’t even permit you to have surgery unless you have quit smoking and pass a nicotine urine analysis.

With recent new “Nicotine-free” e-cigarettes, you may be thinking I’m in the safe-zone. The FDA analysis from 2009 found e-cig cartridges contain other harmful components that can limit your healing abilities. Research has been performed and shown e-cigarettes impact skin and soft tissue differently than traditional nicotine.

The American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS) recommends you meet with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and discuss your smoking habits. Never be ashamed to tell your physician you slipped up and had a “smoke”. There number one priority is your well-being and healing process. Preoperative counseling and documentation can be performed with patients who smoke regarding the potential increased risk of adverse reactions and outcomes following a cosmetic procedure.

To speak with a Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon about your interest in a cosmetic procedure and if you are a potential smoker, schedule an appointment with Dr. Shienbaum at Brandon Plastic Surgery on our website.

Top Plastic Surgeon Tampa

Top Doctor Castle connoly

Dr Shienbaum has again been designated a Top Plastic Surgeon in the Tampa Bay area. This recognition was selected by fellow physician peer nominations and has been achieved for ten consecutive years . Physicians nominate surgeons who they consider the most outstanding in their specialty . Dr Shienbaums credentials have been carefully reviewed by a physician led research team which makes inquires to leading specialists and Vice Presidents of medical affairs. The review encompasses board certifications, medical education, Plastic Surgery training, hospital appointments and professional achievements and recognition .