One of the primary obligations owed their patients by plastic surgeons is to make sure that procedures are undertaken for the right reasons. The fact is, that, in some cases, the image that some people see in the mirror bears little relationship to reality. Those suffering from "body dysmorphic disorder" may become so obsessed over the tiniest facial or body flaws that they wrongly believe themselves to be ugly and disfigured. This psychiatric condition, which involves abnormal processing of visual input, leads some to become ashamed, embarrassed, and upset with a tiny physical flaw that others might not even notice. While these cases may be extreme, surgeons are obligated to reject doing procedures that are not motivated by a real need.

Patients who have a mental illness and exhibit delusional or paranoid behavior can be poor candidates for surgery. Surgery may be appropriate in these cases if it is determined that the patient's goals for surgery are not related to the psychosis. In these cases, a plastic surgeon may work closely with the patient's psychiatrist. To schedule a consultation, please call PLASTIC SURGERY ASSOCIATES at 655-3000. We are located at 1200 West Broadway, Suite 100. Let us do something beautiful for you.