Body Image Dissatisfaction in Male Cosmetic Surgery Patients

Abstract.

This study was the first empirical investigation of body image dissatisfaction in male cosmetic surgery patients. Thirty men completed two body image measures prior to their initial consultation. Results were compared to the norms for each of the measures and with a sample of 30 women seeking similar cosmetic procedures. Results indicated that patients did not demonstrate greater dissatisfaction with their overall appearance than men in a normative sample. However, when asked about the bodily feature they were considering for surgery, they reported significantly greater levels of dissatisfaction than the normative sample. As compared to male patients, female patients reported a greater investment in their physical appearance. Implications of these findings are discussed with respect to the nature of body image dissatisfaction and the relevance of body image in the psychology of male plastic surgery patients.