However, no cosmetic procedure is absolutely safe or perfect. Scientists studying complications after rhinoplasty found that nearly 33% of patients develop varying degrees of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). This condition primarily stems from an obsession with cosmetic surgery. Experts warn that untreated BDD severely impacts patients' daily lives.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder Among Rhinoplasty Patients?
Recent research indicates Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) affects approximately one-third of patients who have undergone cosmetic surgery to alter their nasal appearance. BDD involves excessive preoccupation with perceived or minor physical flaws, severe enough to disrupt daily life. This study was published in the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Anthony Yan stated that the new study involved 266 Belgian patients who underwent nose surgery and were interviewed by plastic surgeons. Among those with functional issues like breathing complications, only 2% exhibited symptoms related to BDD. However, among patients seeking rhinoplasty, 33% had moderate to severe BDD.
33% of Rhinoplasty Patients Suffer from Body Dysmorphic Disorder to Varying Degrees
"BDD is a mental health issue that causes people to look in the mirror and see something completely different from what others see," Dr. Anthony Yan explained. They become disproportionately fixated on their body image. For instance, a small bump on the nose might appear to them as large as a melon.
"These patients undergo numerous cosmetic procedures to correct perceived flaws, yet the underlying issue is never truly addressed. Tragically, nearly 30% to 50% attempt suicide," Dr. Anthony Yan stated. While genetic predisposition may play a role in BDD among ethnic minorities, societal pressures are the primary contributing factor.
"I was born in the U.S., but my parents are Korean. They came from Korea, so I witnessed this culture of cosmetic surgery among distant relatives," Anthony Yoon shared. He recounted how his aunt sent her teenage daughter to Korea for plastic surgery. While reuniting with the aunt's family, they observed her daughter being told: "Oh, look how ugly you are. You need a nose job and double eyelid surgery.Tony, do you think she should?"
He stated he doesn't support minors undergoing cosmetic surgery, nor should those in their early 20s. Yet as a teenager, Yeon himself had surgery to reduce his jawline. So is he part of the cycle pushing people toward a narrow aesthetic ideal? He expressed deep concern about this conflict.
We urge those seeking cosmetic procedures—whether rhinoplasty or breast augmentation—to exercise extreme caution. Never proceed blindly, and never cut corners by choosing unlicensed clinics.