Aesthetic medicine as a tool for improving well-being, body image perception, and social functioning from a psychosocial perspective - review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/JEHS.2026.89.70103Keywords
#aesthetic medicine, body dysmorphic disorder, aesthetic medical proceduresAbstract
Aesthetic medicine is one of the fastest-growing areas of contemporary medicine and lies at the intersection of medical sciences, psychology, sociology, and cultural studies. The increasing popularity of aesthetic procedures results not only from technological progress and greater accessibility of treatments, but also from changing social expectations regarding physical appearance. The aim of this study is to analyze aesthetic medicine as a tool influencing psychological well-being, self-image perception, and the social functioning of individuals, taking into account psychological, cultural, generational, and ethical aspects.
The article discusses the significance of aesthetic procedures in the context of patients’ self-esteem and quality of life, as well as the influence of cultural norms and mass media on the formation of contemporary standards of beauty. Particular attention is devoted to generational differences in attitudes toward aesthetic procedures and to the role of digital media in shaping expectations regarding appearance. The article also emphasizes the importance of ethical principles in aesthetic medicine practice, including respect for patient autonomy, the necessity of obtaining informed consent, and the physician’s responsibility for ensuring patient safety and maintaining realistic expectations regarding treatment outcomes.
Furthermore, the relationship between the use of aesthetic procedures and mental health
is examined, with particular emphasis on body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and other psychological conditions that may influence patients’ motivations. The results of the analysis indicate the need for careful patient selection and the implementation of an interdisciplinary approach involving collaboration between aesthetic medicine specialists, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Such an approach may facilitate the achievement of positive therapeutic outcomes while reducing the risk of unjustified or potentially harmful interventions.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Kinga Haduch, Zuzanna Michalska, Anna Łęczycka, Nicole Aleksandra Ordyczyńska-Mardyła, Izabela Zuzanna Stranz, Aleksandra Stańczyk, Olga Chorąży, Joanna Strzelczyk, Amelia Kędziora, Iga Suchta
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