Skip to content 
AMM 49: Dermal Fillers, BDD: Balancing Beauty & Mental Well-Being in Aesthetic
April 16, 2024
In today’s episode of Aesthetic Medicine Minute, we delve into the concerning relationship between dermal fillers and Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). Highlighting insights from a recent Forbes article, we explore the psychological impact of the quest for perfection in aesthetic treatments. As dermal fillers gain popularity for smoothing wrinkles and enhancing facial features, we confront the potential they have to exacerbate unhealthy obsessions with appearance. Medical professionals are urged to discuss motivations and manage expectations to prioritize patient mental health alongside physical results. Tune in as we emphasize the importance of a holistic approach in aesthetic medicine, striving for a balance between external beauty and internal self-assuredness. Join us to understand how physicians can cultivate true confidence both internally and externally in the field of aesthetic enhancements.
Quick Takes
Welcome to Aesthetic Medicine Minute for today, April 16th. A striking concern is emerging in the realm of aesthetic medicine, one that could change how we approach facial enhancements. A recent Forbes article sheds light on the intertwining issues of dermal fillers and Body Dysmorphic Disorder, or BDD.
- Medical professionals are increasingly aware that the pursuit of perfect, wrinkle-free skin can sometimes edge into the territory of BDD—a mental health condition where individuals become fixated on perceived flaws in their appearance.
- The concern is that dermal fillers, while celebrated for ironing out wrinkles and restoring youthful contours, may also fuel an unhealthy obsession with perceived imperfections, prompting doctors to exercise more caution and have an open conversation with patients about motivations and expectations.
- As medical professionals, it’s crucial to provide care that considers the whole person, balancing aesthetic desires with a healthy self-image, ensuring treatments align with physical needs and support psychological well-being to help individuals feel confident in their skin without compromising mental health.
Episode Transcript
Welcome to Aesthetic Medicine Minute for today, April 16th. A striking concern is emerging in the realm of aesthetic medicine, one that could change how we approach facial enhancements. A recent Forbes article sheds light on the intertwining issues of dermal fillers and Body Dysmorphic Disorder, or BDD.
Medical professionals are increasingly aware that the pursuit of perfect, wrinkle-free skin can sometimes edge into the territory of BDD—a mental health condition where individuals become fixated on perceived flaws in their appearance. While dermal fillers have been celebrated for their ability to iron out wrinkles and restore youthful contours, the concern is that they may also fuel an unhealthy obsession with perceived imperfections.
The article points out that these procedures, although minimally invasive, are not without risk, and the psychological implications are prompting doctors to exercise more caution. It’s crucial to have an open conversation with our patients about their motivations and expectations. The goal in aesthetic medicine should always be to help individuals feel more confident in their skin, but not at the expense of their mental health.
As medical professionals, we must remain vigilant, ensuring our treatments align not only with physical needs but also support psychological well-being. Our responsibility is to provide care that considers the whole person, balancing aesthetic desires with a healthy self-image. Sculpted confidence starts within, and as a physician, my commitment is to help my patients achieve that, both inside and out. Stay tuned for more updates and insights in tomorrow’s Aesthetic Medicine Minute.
