Mental Health x Cosmetic Surgery: Popsugar Beauty Q & A
Interviewer: Hannah Cassidy
Interviewee: Stephanie Anyakwo
HC: Do you think there are dangers to following cosmetic procedures (ie. “snatched” jaw “fox eye”, lifts, chin lipo) that trend or go viral?
SA: From a mental health perspective, I believe there can always be a possibility of negative effects when you are altering your appearance. Whether this is a trendy or viral cosmetic surgery, a common well researched procedure, or even a drastic hair change (e.g., switching from long tresses to a short-buzzed cut), the consequences of how you may feel about yourself afterwards can vary. This is why taking proactive measures prior to undergoing any procedure can be beneficial with managing your feelings and emotions during and after the process. Some of these proactive measures include but are not limited to:
1. Intention- Be fully honest with yourself, why do you want to get this cosmetic procedure? Is this something that you want personally for yourself or is it to attain external validation from others? What might life look like if you do not get this procedure? What do you imagine life looking like if you do?
2. Research- It is my personal motto that “nothing comes fast but a mistake.” Take the time to do your research for whatever cosmetic enhancement/procedure you’re interested in. The opportunity to have the procedure will always be there- you do not have to rush the process. Schedule a block of time each week to research procedures, doctors, and reviews so you feel confident with your decision.
3. Therapy- Speaking with a therapist can provide introspection and guidance before and after any procedure. Sometimes there is a misconception that therapy has to be a life long process, and that is false. It is important to find a therapist that is tailored towards your needs. There are plenty of therapists that provide treatment on a short term and as needed basis.
HC: Cyberbullying is reported to be linked to an increased desire for plastic surgery among adolescents/GenZ, do you think there are any long term consequences to this? Why or why not?
SA: Research shows that there are long term consequences to the negative effects of social media, especially in teenage girls. The difference with cyberbullying is that it can occur at any time (day or night), this continued access increases the frequency and intensity of this type of bullying. (2) One study found that cyberbullying as a form of bullying has a greater impact on the individual than bullying that occurred through texting and phone calls. (1) In addition, this bullying can occur in public or private (e.g., direct message), which often leaves individuals to manage this type of attack on their own, without the social support from others. (1)
The mental effects of cyberbullying can lead to victims experiencing feelings of isolation and hopelessness. The long-term effects of these feelings can lead to experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and other stress related conditions. (1) In extreme cases, cyberbullying can also lead to thoughts of suicide ideation and self harm. (6) If your child is having suicidal thoughts, contact the national suicide prevention lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
HC: Overall, do you think the cultural opinion on “getting work done” is shifting? Why or why not?
SA: Personally, I think more than cultural opinion, the access of “getting work done” is shifting. Each year, there are new procedures and doctor offices/clinics that are readily available to meet the customers needs. In addition to the spectrum of cosmetic procedures widening, social media can also play a role in this desire due to constant exposure which increases the need of instant gratification. Developmental factors such as age also impact the prospective of the individual seeking the procedure.
HC: Are there any emotional benefits for choosing to address physical insecurities through cosmetic surgery or injections?
SA: I am an advocate for doing whatever makes you feel good. However, it is important that you heal from the inside out and not the other way around. Mental health issues are not always visible to the naked eye. It is rare that I walk past a person, look at them, and think “that person can really benefit from therapy.” In fact, many times it is that person who appears to “have it all together” that needs help, but has not yet expressed it.
If someone is struggling with physical insecurities there is a probability that it stems from experiences (past or present) that has affected them emotionally which starts internally. While cosmetic procedures may provide some relief and increase self-esteem in some people, it is important to know that cosmetic surgery alone, does not heal. This is where going to therapy or seeking some sort of counseling has a true benefit with healing your emotions, behaviors and thought process.
HC: More patients are choosing to share the journey of their cosmetic procedures online, meeting both scrutiny and praise — do you think this is helping normalize the choice to undergo cosmetic procedures or potentially increasing a negative self-image in others?
SA: I think it all depends on the mindset of the viewer. There are benefits from sharing your personal journey of cosmetic procedures because it can normalize the process, ease anxiety by having references and recommendations, and provide the opportunity to have an exchange with an individual who now has an expertise in the procedure you are interested. If the viewer already has a negative image of self and is struggling with insecurities or low self-esteem, I can see how constant exposures online can have a negative impact.
HC: How do you think providers should handle patients exhibiting signs of cyberbullying or psychological vulnerability?
SA: If providers notice that their patients maybe exhibiting signs of cyberbullying or psychological vulnerability, it is always important for them to use their due diligence and not rush the procedure. It may also be helpful to have reading materials such as pamphlets that provide more information on symptoms of anxiety, depression, and cyberbullying. Providers can also speak to patients about the benefits of therapy and the importance of addressing some areas of need in therapy prior to undergoing any cosmetic procedure.