Body dysmorphic disorder – the importance of diagnosis prior to initial consultation in cosmetic procedures

Vol. 2 – Number 6 – 2021 Literature review Page 58-66 Body dysmorphic disorder – the importance of diagnosis prior to initial consultation in cosmetic procedures João Heli de Campos¹ ABSTRACT Aesthetic procedures do not have an absolute contraindication in patients with psychiatric disorders, however, anamnesis must take into account the body dysmorphic disorder that is the most common among individuals who seek body and facial changes through aesthetic procedures. Individuals with body dysmorphic disorder are distressed by perceived flaws in their physical appearance, commonly in their face. Although these “defects” are generally not noticeable to others, individuals with BDD misinterpret a certain part of their body as unattractive and repulsive. They spend several hours a day worrying about appearance, engaging in repetitive, time-consuming behaviors, like comparing, checking the mirror. They camouflage with the hair, handkerchiefs or the clothes the part and the body that the disturbed person sees with a problem. They tidy up their appearance excessively and seek guarantees from third parties that the problem exists. The purpose of this article is to alert the aesthetic professional about the obstacles that they may face when they are careless about the body dysmorphic disorder. Descriptors: Body dysmorphic disorder, psychiatric disorders, body image, plastic surgery, aesthetic procedures. ¹ Specialist in Orofacial Harmonization, M.Sc. in Orofacial Harmonization, Dr. in Biomedical Sciences. DOI: 10.24077/2021;26-5866