Aesthetics and psychology

last update date : 2022-03-01

Table of contents

• A dichotomy between the perceived image and the returned image

• Accept yourself better, to live better with others

• Cosmetic surgery on a case-by-case basis

It is often believed that having recourse to cosmetic surgery is a more or less frivolous approach, guided by the desire to please or seduce. But most of the time, the stakes are much higher for the patient.

From a simple complex to dysmorphophobia, there is a wide range of factors that push women, like men, to make an appointment with a cosmetic surgeon.

If the primary objective of patients is to improve their appearance, it is also for them to increase their psychological well-being.

A dichotomy between the perceived image and the returned image

Rejuvenation procedures such as Botox injections, cervicofacial lifting or blepharoplasty are often considered to correct an image that is no longer in tune with the patient's personality and/or physical condition. A dynamic and active person, in perfect health, will not wish to wear a tired appearance as well as a puffy and marked face. Sometimes surgery is a simple complement to a deeper process that allows the patient to reconcile with his body. After a physical transformation, linked to a pregnancy, a strong weight loss or an illness, the silhouette no longer has the same appearance. It may have unsightly excess skin that is difficult to hide. In this specific case, plastic and reconstructive surgery allows the patient to find a body that he recognizes.

Accept yourself better, to live better with others

When the complex is very invasive, to the point of impacting the social, emotional and professional development of the patient, cosmetic surgery has a definite role in improving the quality of life. It is still necessary to distinguish the real complexes, amplified by the gaze or the remarks of others, with the fictitious complexes (rarer) which sometimes mask a psychological disorder. As such, the role of the plastic surgeon is decisive. During the first consultation, the plastic surgeon will analyze the patient's request and provide him with a personalized and objective response.

Cosmetic surgery on a case-by-case basis

The use of surgery or aesthetic medicine, if it is now better perceived and integrated into society, should not be considered lightly. There are no standardized acts: each patient seen by Doctor Gounot is listened to and the chosen solution is always the one that will bring him the most comfort and benefits. Radical transformations are replaced by modifications perfectly adjusted to the patient's morphology and objectives. The latter is also invited to mature his reflection by meeting the cosmetic surgeon several times before the intervention is scheduled. It is only under these conditions that cosmetic surgery can restore self-esteem on a lasting basis.