How does plastic surgery affect the self-confidence of patients? According to a recent study published in JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery, it can greatly increase the happiness and confidence in one’s appearance.
The study, involving a range of young women in China, looked at the levels of confidence and satisfaction of facial features before and after surgery. With a total of 161 patients, data was obtained both before surgery and six months afterward. Using 355 general population controls (GPCs) and 268 facial appearance raters (FARs), patients rated their satisfaction with their appearance.
Although visiting a plastic surgeon, in general, did lower the self-esteem of some patients, as compared to the general population, these levels were shown to increase six months after surgery was completed.
After the surgeries, patients were more likely to have an overall better view of their appearance, in terms of work, relationships, and overall happiness. One major indication of the study is the focus of exactly why patients desire the change in terms of planning and completion. Although plastic surgery will change appearances, it is not the only way to change how a patient thinks about themselves, or may not be their only way to achieve true happiness.
The most prevalent surgeries that were sought during this study include nose and eyelid procedures.
A nose surgery, also known as a rhinoplasty, is a procedure used to reshape the nose in order to create a more pleasing appearance. It can also be used to alleviate breathing issues that may be present.
Rhinoplasty is considered the most popular surgical procedure in the U.S., with more than 400,000 performed each year. By removing and sculpting nasal tissues in order to enhance facial appearance, the size of the nose is often lessened.
Results are unique to each individual and should be treated as such. These results can depend on a range of factors including skin condition, thickness, nasal and facial structure, genetics, and age. Although nose surgeries were often performed to provide the patient with relief from breathing obstructions or pain, it is now often used to create an overall more balanced facial profile.
Eyelid surgery, on the other hand, is focused on reducing the circles beneath the eyes, removing excess wrinkles and creating a more youthful appearance. Also known as a blepharoplasty, eyelid surgery is able to correct excessive puffiness, which can often age a patient.
By removing excess skin and tightening circles beneath the eyes, patients are given a more rejuvenated appearance.
Nose and eyelid procedures are known to be combined for many patients, creating a more desirable appearance, focused on facial balance and a youthful appearance.