Psychology and quality of life of patients undergoing liposuction surgery

Abstract

Skin, skin care and cosmetics were already in ancient times important aspects of individual well-being as well as interindividual interaction. Such cosmetic changes of appearance are well appreciated in all cultures. The desire for alteration and improvement of the individual appearance has been part of human evolution for thousands of years. Nonetheless there is a constant discussion about the role and legitimacy of cosmetic medicine. Are medical cosmetic corrections necessary or only tolerable? Are they useless or even contraindicated? Cosmetic surgery interventions are in most cases elective procedures. What is the motivation for people to undergo cosmetic surgery? How does it affect their life? © 2006 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.