Predicting consideration of cosmetic surgery in a college population: A continuum of body image disturbance and the importance of coping strategies

Elective cosmetic surgeries are increasing in the American population with reasons linked to body image disturbance and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Little research exists documenting the continuum of body image disturbance and its relationship to seeking surgery. The present research examined data from 544 participants, 55 of whom were diagnosable with BDD. Using assessments for body image disturbance, problematic coping strategies, and BDD symptomatology, results provided evidence for a continuum of body image distress. Logistic regression analysis supported the hypothesis that increased levels of body image disturbance and one type of problematic coping strategy (Appearance Fixing) predicted consideration of cosmetic surgery. Of participants diagnosable with BDD, those who considered cosmetic surgery showed more severe body image disturbance and problematic coping than those who did not consider surgery. These results have implications for pre-surgical assessment as well as psychological interventions rather than invasive medical interventions.

► We examine the link between elective cosmetic surgery and body image distress.
► Problematic coping and body image disturbance predict considerations of cosmetic surgery.
► BDD cases are more likely to consider cosmetic surgery.
► BDD cases considering surgery evidence more body image disturbance and problematic coping.
► Implications exist for pre-surgical assessment and psychological intervention.