Body image & appearance-related mental health
Body dysmorphic disorder, appearance-related self-esteem concerns, and psychological screening ahead of any cosmetic or aesthetic procedure elsewhere in your care.
What it is
Covers body dysmorphic disorder, appearance-related self-esteem concerns, and psychological screening ahead of any cosmetic or aesthetic procedure elsewhere in a patient's care. Distinguishing ordinary appearance dissatisfaction from clinically significant body dysmorphic concern is the first step in assessment.
Common symptoms & concerns
- Preoccupation with a perceived flaw in appearance that is minor or not observable to others
- Repetitive behaviours (mirror-checking, excessive grooming, reassurance-seeking) or avoidance related to appearance concerns
- Appearance-related distress significant enough to affect self-esteem, social functioning, or decisions about cosmetic procedures
- Screening indicated before any cosmetic or aesthetic procedure, since unaddressed body dysmorphic disorder is a recognised contraindication
Assessment & care
Assessment approach
Assessment includes structured psychological screening with standardized instruments, particularly ahead of any cosmetic or aesthetic procedure, to distinguish ordinary appearance dissatisfaction from clinically significant concern.
In-scope care
In-scope care includes body-image/body-dysmorphia-focused CBT and pre-procedure psychometric screening, with mind-body practices available for self-esteem and anxiety support. Psychometric screening identifies whether a procedure is clinically appropriate at all, while body-image CBT addresses the underlying distorted self-perception directly.
Treatments used
Related questions
Screening is specifically indicated before cosmetic or aesthetic procedures, since unaddressed body dysmorphic disorder is a recognised contraindication in cosmetic medicine; it is standard practice rather than an extra step.
Ordinary appearance dissatisfaction is common and doesn't typically involve repetitive behaviours or significant functional impact. Body dysmorphic disorder involves preoccupation with a perceived flaw that's minor or unnoticeable to others, along with behaviours like mirror-checking.
Where screening raises significant concern, the procedure is deferred pending psychological care rather than proceeding on the original schedule; this is a safety-focused decision, not a punitive one.