Psychopatological Disorders and Personality Traits in Plastic Surgeons’ and Cosmetologists’ Patients

Abstract

In the view of growing number of patients consulting plastic surgeons and cosmetologists, evaluation of psychopathological disorders and personality traits of these patients is of great importance.

The purpose of this screening study was to evaluate and to compare pathocharacterological and pathopsychological traits of plastic surgeons and cosmetologists’ patients.

Method:

The study used psychometric method. The validated scales used were Leonhard Personality Inventory, NEO-PI-R, SAS, SDS, HCL-32- R1, Holmes and Rahe stress scale, SAF. We included all patients who have applied to the Institute of Plastic Surgery and Cosmetology from February 2012 to June 2012 and who gave Inform Consent.

Results:

Study sample consists of 123 patients (103 women), 18-70 years. In the group of cosmetologists’ patients (n=92; 76 women; mean age 44,6+-2,5 years) histrionic and anxiety-phobic personality traits predominated. Constitutionally determined or gained extroversion, expressivity, impulsivity and emotional instability were detected. Anxiety symptoms were detected in 32,4% of patients; depressive symptoms were detected in 35,8% of patients. In the group of plastic surgeons’ patients (n=31; 27 women; mean age 36,7+-1,8 years) pedantic, sticking and disthymic personality traits predominated. Introversion, high level of self-control and detachment were detected. Anxiety symptoms were detected in 22,9% of patients; depressive symptoms were detected in 21,7% of patients.

Conclusion:

Our data give evidence of statistically significant differences in pathocharacterological and pathopsychological traits of plastic surgeons and cosmetologists’ patients. about one-third of these patients report about symptoms of depression, anxiety and hypomania. Complex diagnostic examination needed in order to determine nosological diagnosis and treatment strategies.