This cutting-edge research (Devoto, Díaz Ricci, Gasparini, 2024) shows how screening cosmetic patients for Body Dysmorphic Disorder using quick and easy-to-administer questionnaires, can help cosmetic surgeons identify patients who might have unrealistic expectations and at risk of dissatisfaction. It’s like having an insight into the future, allowing practitioners to tailor their consultations, set expectations, and ensure better outcomes for each patient.
Not only does pre screening for BDD improve patient care, but it also protects surgeons from the frustration of dealing with dissatisfaction when the results are technically flawless. The study revealed that patients with higher scores on a BDD screener were more likely to be unhappy with their results, even when the surgery itself was successful. By using the screening tools, practitioners can catch potential red flags early, leading to smoother, more positive experiences for everyone involved.
In this study, they used the Dysmorphic Concern Questionnaire (DCQ), which is now proven valuable in predicting patient satisfaction after cosmetic eyelid surgery, particularly in identifying individuals with tendencies toward dissatisfaction. This study, involving 454 patients who underwent various cosmetic eyelid procedures, aimed to uncover factors that could predict satisfaction post-surgery.
Key findings include:
- DCQ as a Predicto: A higher DCQ score was significantly associated with lower satisfaction post-surgery. The DCQ, a brief questionnaire, helps identify patients with heightened dysmorphic concerns, allowing surgeons to anticipate potential dissatisfaction and manage expectations more effectively.
- Age, Gender, and Complications: Increasing age and male gender were associated with lower satisfaction rates, as were post-surgical complications.
- Pre-Surgical Filler: Interestingly, patients with a history of pre-surgical fillers did not show a significant difference in satisfaction compared to others, challenging previous assumptions that fillers complicate surgical outcomes.
For cosmetic practitioners, integrating the pre surgery screening into preoperative assessments can enhance patient care by identifying those at risk for dissatisfaction. This predictive approach, coupled with effective communication about surgical risks and outcomes, can improve both patient experiences and the overall success of cosmetic procedures.
Reference:
Devoto MH, Díaz Ricci AI, Gasparini C. The Dysmorphic Concern Questionnaire: Is It Possible to Predict a Satisfactory Result After Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery? Ophthalmic Plast Reconstr Surg. 2024 Sep-Oct 01;40(5):576-581. doi: 10.1097/IOP.0000000000002657. Epub 2024 Mar 21. PMID: 38534064.
