Book a ConsultationAs plastic surgeons, we are deeply committed to improving the lives of our patients by helping them feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. However, the relationship between a surgeon and a patient is built on trust, mutual respect, and understanding. While most individuals seeking cosmetic procedures are excited about the transformative potential of their desired treatment, some may come to us with underlying concerns that can make the process less than ideal for them — and for us.
As professionals in the field, it’s crucial that we recognise these potential red flags with empathy, as our primary goal is not only to provide excellent care but also to ensure the long-term emotional and physical wellbeing of our patients. Here are a few considerations when assessing potential red flags, and how we can approach them with compassion and professionalism.
1. Unrealistic Expectations
One of the most common red flags is a patient whose expectations of the procedure may be unattainable or unrealistic. Whether it’s a desire for a drastic change or a belief that a single procedure will resolve all of their insecurities, these expectations can be a sign of deeper emotional struggles.
How to handle it with compassion:
It’s important to take the time to listen carefully and understand the patient’s motivations. Often, when a patient has unrealistic expectations, it stems from a place of personal distress or a desire for perfection. A thoughtful conversation, where you set realistic expectations and educate them about the limits of what surgery can achieve, can go a long way. Frame your advice in a positive light, emphasising how you are there to enhance their natural beauty in a way that feels empowering and authentic to them.
2. A History of Body Dysmorphia or Mental Health Struggles
Patients who exhibit signs of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) or have a history of mental health struggles can be particularly vulnerable when considering cosmetic surgery. Their perception of their appearance may be distorted, leading them to focus on areas that may not require surgical intervention.
How to handle it with compassion:
If a patient mentions a history of BDD or shows signs of struggling with their body image, it’s important to approach the conversation delicately. Acknowledge their feelings, but be sure to explain how surgery is not a solution for underlying mental health concerns. Encourage them to consider speaking to a therapist or mental health professional before moving forward with any procedures. This shows that you care about their overall wellbeing, not just their aesthetic desires.
3. Pressure from Friends, Family, or Social Media
A patient who seeks surgery because of pressure from others — whether it’s family, friends, or the relentless influence of social media beauty standards — may not be coming to you with their own authentic desires. In these cases, the surgery may not be motivated by self-love or confidence, but by external forces that do not take their true feelings into account.
How to handle it with compassion:
As a surgeon, it’s essential to create a safe, non-judgemental space where the patient feels empowered to make decisions based on their own wishes. Gently ask about their reasons for wanting the procedure and make sure they are making the decision for themselves and not because of outside pressure. This is a great opportunity to provide guidance, educate them about healthy motivations for cosmetic surgery, and make sure that their decision comes from a place of self-care rather than external validation.
4. A Lack of Understanding About the Risks and Recovery Process
Another red flag is a patient who seems unaware or unconcerned about the risks or recovery process involved in surgery. This could be a sign of naivety or an overemphasis on the potential benefits without understanding the full picture.
How to handle it with compassion:
Be sure to thoroughly explain the potential risks and the recovery process. Use empathetic language to ensure they don’t feel overwhelmed, but at the same time, be honest and clear about what to expect. Explain that the road to recovery is just as important as the procedure itself, and the outcome can only be successful if they follow your aftercare instructions with dedication. Reassure them that you are with them every step of the way, not just before and during surgery.
5. Inconsistent or Excessive Requests for Surgery
If a patient repeatedly asks for multiple procedures in a short span of time or has had numerous surgeries with no clear understanding of the rationale behind each, it may be a sign of an unhealthy fixation on physical changes.
How to handle it with compassion:
Approach these cases with care and inquire about their motivations. Are they trying to fix an imperfection they perceive, or are they chasing an unattainable ideal? Use this opportunity to have an open conversation about the importance of balance and self-acceptance. Offer a comprehensive consultation where you can explain the risks of multiple procedures and help guide them toward a more reasonable plan of action that supports their long-term wellbeing.
6. Seeking Surgery as a Quick Fix for Deeper Emotional or Relationship Issues
Surgery can offer significant emotional and physical benefits, but it’s important to recognise when someone may be seeking a procedure as a means of escaping or “fixing” deeper emotional pain or relationship struggles. If a patient is looking to undergo surgery because they believe it will solve all their personal or emotional issues, they may not be mentally or emotionally prepared for the outcome.
How to handle it with compassion:
In these situations, it’s vital to address the emotional factors that may be contributing to their desire for surgery. Encourage open dialogue, express genuine concern, and recommend that they speak with a therapist if appropriate. It’s crucial that patients realise that surgery cannot provide emotional healing, and by addressing underlying issues first, they are more likely to have a positive, fulfilling outcome from the procedure.
Conclusion: A Compassionate Approach to Patient Care
At the heart of every consultation, our ultimate goal is the wellbeing of the patient — both physically and emotionally. Recognising red flags isn’t about turning patients away; it’s about understanding that surgery should only be pursued when it is truly in the best interest of the patient’s mental, emotional, and physical health.
By showing empathy and compassion, we can guide our patients towards making informed, thoughtful decisions that reflect their true needs and desires. Creating a safe, understanding environment where patients feel heard and supported is key to ensuring that their journey is one that leads to long-lasting confidence and happiness.
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