Aesthetic Surgery and Psychology

When discussing aesthetic surgery, we should first explain the etymology of certain interconnected terms related to beauty.

Beauty

The combination of qualities perceived through the 5 senses that evoke pleasant sensations.

Projection

A defense mechanism involving the displacement of one's feelings, characteristics, or parts of self onto other objects or persons.

Self-perception

The concept we have of ourselves.

Self-esteem

The collective evaluative judgments an individual makes about themselves.

Aesthetica

Derives from the Greek word 'aisthesis' meaning sensation and 'aisthanomei' meaning targeted perception of sense.

Beauty and Aesthetic Surgery

Initially, aesthetics was a branch of philosophy concerned with aspects of knowledge relating to sensory perception, natural and artistic beauty, and gesture judgment. Each individual has their own way of perceiving reality and their body image. Patients considering surgical intervention often ask their physician about post-operative outcomes, self-recognition, and potential psychological adjustments.

Aesthetic Surgery to Enhance Self-esteem

Following aesthetic surgery, patients undergo a reprocessing of their internalized self-image, producing significant psychological effects. The desire to enhance beauty stems from its association with success and fulfillment in social and emotional life. A positive self-image leads to increased self-confidence and improved relationships. External form modifications profoundly alter the subjective perception of psychological and physical self. The integration of one's new image manifests externally as increased self-esteem and enhanced positive worldview.

Physical well-being facilitates connection with true psychological beauty, and the authentic concept of beauty transcends fashion, emphasizing the importance of harmony and proportion in form.