According to recent statistics by the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, Americans spent roughly 12 billion dollars on plastic surgery last year. If you’ve been wondering why such an enormous amount is spent on cosmetic procedures, science and research may have something to say about it.
The Link Between Happiness and Cosmetic Surgery
A long-term study whose results were published last year looked into the long-term psychological effects of plastic surgery on 544 respondents. Specifically, the researchers of the study wanted to know if individuals who undergo facial plastic surgery such as a face lift, rhinoplasty, and eyelid surgery experience an improvement in the quality of their lives following the procedure.
By and large, the results of the study revealed that those who choose to undergo plastic surgery actually felt better about themselves; they reportedly “felt healthier, were less anxious, had developed more self-esteem, and found their body, as a whole, more attractive”. Moreover, no significant adverse effects were noticed post-procedure.
A Closer Look on the Study
The following groups of people were involved in the study:
- 544 individuals who underwent aesthetic surgery for the first time; 87 percent of which are women
- 264 individuals who earlier wanted to have plastic surgery but decided not to go ahead with it
- 1000 individuals who stated that they will never consider plastic surgery of any type
There were no known significant differences among the 3 groups in terms of physical and mental health variables.
Through the Goal Attainment Scaling instrument, the researchers asked open-ended questions alongside 10 standard statement goals. Two of the standard statement goals were unrealistic — “All my problems will be solved” and “I’ll be completely a new person”. Only 12 percent of the respondents specified that they can relate to the aforementioned unrealistic goals.
In addition, the individuals who decided to have plastic surgery were assessed before surgery and 3, 6 and 12 months afterwards the procedure of their choice.
Plastic Surgery Can Indeed Help Improve Overall Well-Being!
Our patients have expressed satisfaction and reportedly felt good in how they look and feel after having cosmetic surgery. Let us help you achieve the same! Call 925.820.3633 or fill out this contact form to set up an appointment. We look forward to your visit!
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