Psychological assessment

Although research relating to the psychology of the cosmetic surgery patient is still in its infancy, there is a consensus among researchers that various combinations of psychological factors play a key role in the recent increase in demand for cosmetic surgery, in the motivation of prospective patients to undergo surgery, in their expectations of outcome, and in their postoperative adjustment. An appreciation of the psychological aspects of cosmetic surgery is therefore crucial and places the surgeon in a stronger position to evaluate a patient’s appropriateness for surgery. Indeed, appropriate patient selection is considered a vital part of a surgeon’s role in ensuring effective care and treatment. This chapter addresses why an understanding of psychological factors contributing to all stages of the treatment process is important to the provision of appropriate care and offers a framework for pre- and postoperative assessment.