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Majority of dermatologic surgeons inquire about cosmetic patients' mental health issues

The majority of surveyed dermatologic surgeons inquired about mental health issues with their patients considering cosmetic procedures, according to study results.

Researchers e-mailed a survey to 2,855 practicing members of the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. The survey, adapted from a survey of American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery members conducted in 2001, included questions about the frequency in which dermatologists inquired about a new patients’ motivations and expectations for treatment, psychiatric treatment history and whether providers had ever declined treatment because of concerns of mental health status, as well as questions about body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).

The survey was completed by 266 members (9.1%). Three-quarters reported having asked new patients about their motivations (76.7%) or expectations (76.4%) regarding cosmetic treatment. Approximately 60% reported asking patients about psychiatric treatment history. Declining treatment because of concern over mental health history of a patient was reported by 92% of respondents.

Ninety-four percent of survey respondents indicated they were aware of BDD, with respondents estimating 12.8% of patients seen on initial consultation having the condition. Sixty-two percent of respondents refused treatment on patients suspected of having BDD. Sixty-one percent of respondents indicated having treated a patient and realizing after treatment that the patient likely had BDD. Sixty-three percent of respondents indicated interest in providing information related to BDD to patients, with the same percentage considering BDD to be a contraindication to treatment. – by Bruce Thiel

Disclosure: Sarwer reports consulting relationships with BAROnova, EnteroMedics and Kythera. Please see the full study for a list of all other authors’ relevant financial disclosures.