Cosmetic surgery can have a profound effect not only on an individual’s physical appearance, but also on their emotional and psychological state. Changes experienced after procedures such as rhinoplasty, facelifts, and liposuction can directly or indirectly affect a person’s self-image and social relationships. However, people generally do not pay much attention to the psychological dimension of this process.
Before surgery, people usually have high expectations. Thoughts such as “I will be more confident with my new nose” or “Everyone will love me more when I become more beautiful” can combine with unrealistic dreams and lead to great disappointment afterwards. If a person is trying to solve their internal problems with their appearance, they need to know that cosmetic procedures will not eliminate these problems, but may instead make them more visible.
Physical effects such as swelling, bruising, or pain, especially in the first few weeks after the operation, can cause low morale. The question that comes to mind when looking in the mirror, “Is this the person I imagined myself to be?” can cause short-term depression or anxiety symptoms. However, these feelings usually diminish as the healing process progresses.
Successful cosmetic surgery results positively affect the self-confidence of most people. People can smile more easily and feel much more comfortable in social settings. However, in some individuals, this sudden change in appearance can cause conflict in their self-image. The question, “Who am I now?” can arise, especially in cases of significant change, and can greatly damage a person’s psychology.
Not every cosmetic surgery requires psychological support, but in individuals with serious body image disorders (such as Body Dysmorphic Disorder), a psychological evaluation must be conducted before surgical intervention is recommended. Additionally, pre- and post-surgery counseling services can help manage the process more effectively.
Aesthetic surgery is not merely an aesthetic intervention but also an emotional and psychological process. During this process, aligning the individual’s expectations with reality and seeking psychological support when necessary ensures that the surgery yields more satisfying results both physically and mentally.
