Question

A 20-year-old single female visits a plastic surgeon requesting a nose job because her nose is "huge and ugly." She says everyone stares at her because of her repulsive face, so she rarely goes out. On inspection, her nose appears perfectly normal and small. After the procedure, she is unhappy with the result and still insists her nose is large. Think:

Answer 1

The case described is an example of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), a mental health condition characterized by an obsessive preoccupation with perceived flaws in one's appearance. People with BDD have a distorted perception of their body and may seek unnecessary cosmetic procedures to alleviate their distress. Treatment options for BDD may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication.

Step-by-step explanation:

The case described in the question is an example of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), a mental health condition characterized by an obsessive preoccupation with perceived flaws in one's appearance. People with BDD often have a distorted perception of their body and believe they look ugly or deformed, even if there is no objective evidence of such flaws. In this case, the 20-year-old single female had a normal and small nose, but she still perceived it as large and unattractive.

Body dysmorphic disorder is a complex condition that requires professional help from mental health experts, such as psychiatrists or psychologists, who can diagnose and provide appropriate treatment. Treatment options for BDD may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. CBT can help individuals challenge and modify their distorted beliefs about their appearance, while medication may be prescribed to manage any associated anxiety or depression.

It is important to emphasize the significance of seeking professional help for mental health concerns, as self-perception and body image issues can greatly impact a person's well-being and quality of life.