Body image dissatisfaction and quality of life: The role of self-esteem and depression in individuals seeking cosmetic surgeries
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Date
30/11/2020Author
Brogan, Janna Linda
Metadata
Abstract
Background
Research suggests high incidence rates of body image dissatisfaction in adult
populations. Poor body image has been linked to mental health outcomes including
symptoms of depression and low self-esteem. As research into the negative impact
of body image dissatisfaction has expanded evidence suggests a link between body
image concerns and quality of life. Limited research has focused on the relationship
between body image dissatisfaction and quality life, and explored the potential
mechanisms that may explain this relationship (self-esteem, depression) in those
seeking cosmetic procedures. Research suggests cosmetic procedures lead to
improvements in psychosocial functioning. However not all studies report
improvements. Criteria for individuals undergoing cosmetic procedures in public
healthcare settings and private health providers differ. It is not known if such
differences impact on these outcomes.
Aims
The study aimed to conduct a systematic review to explore quality of life, body image,
general mental health and self-esteem outcomes for those undergoing surgery in the
public healthcare sector and compare these to the private healthcare sector. The
purpose of the second part of the study was to investigate self-esteem and depression
as mediators in the relationship between body image dissatisfaction and quality of
life.
Method
Studies were identified by searching 11 databases for research which explored
psychosocial variables before and after cosmetic surgery procedures. Methodological
quality of included studies was assessed. A cross-sectional, quantitative design was
used in the empirical study. Data was collected with self-report forms from 404
participants seeking cosmetic surgery through two NHS Health Boards.
Results
Systematic review results indicated a greater number of improvements were reported
in the public sector in comparison to private sector studies. However the quality of
included studies was generally higher in the public sector and significant differences
in study design and methodology was found across studies. Empirical results
suggested that self-esteem and depression mediate the relationship between
psychological, social relations and environment quality of life. Depression was found
to mediate the relationship between body image dissatisfaction and physical health
quality of life. Self-esteem did not mediate this relationship.
Conclusions
The results suggest there is a relationship between body image dissatisfaction and
poor quality of life and self-esteem and depression mediate this relationship. Self esteem and depression interventions, therefore, may be suitable areas to target for
those seeking cosmetic surgery procedures particularly those who may be
contraindicated for surgery. Findings also suggest patients undergoing cosmetic
procedures in the public sector experience greater improvements in psychosocial
functioning compared to private medical settings.