Impact of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery on Self-esteem
The QUALIPLAST study is researching how plastic and cosmetic surgery might change how people feel about themselves. Many people have these operations not just for looks, but because they hope to feel better emotionally. Even though these surgeries are popular, we don't know much about their long-term effects on self-esteem. This study is different because it's large and will follow many patients undergoing various procedures over time. Researchers will ask questions before surgery, and then three months and a year afterwards, to see how feelings of self-esteem change. The goal is to get a better understanding of how these procedures affect mental well-being, helping doctors provide even better care.
At a glance
What is this study about?
The QUALIPLAST study is looking into something really important: how plastic and cosmetic surgery might affect how people feel about themselves, also known as self-esteem. Many people decide to have these operations because they hope it will make them feel happier and more confident, not just change their appearance. Even though lots of people are having plastic surgery, there hasn't been much research to properly understand if these operations actually help people feel better about themselves in the long run.
Most past studies have only looked at how the body changes, or what happens very soon after surgery, and often only for one type of procedure. This new study is different because it's much bigger, involves various types of plastic surgery, and will follow people for a longer time. They'll ask patients questions about their self-esteem before their surgery, and then again three months and 12 months afterwards. This will help researchers see if and how people's self-esteem changes over time.
The main aim is to get a clearer picture of how these surgeries affect people's emotional well-being. By gathering this information, doctors and healthcare professionals can gain valuable knowledge. This understanding can then help them give better advice and support to patients considering plastic or cosmetic surgery, making sure that patient care really addresses what people need.
Key takeaways
- This study evaluates how plastic surgery affects self-esteem.
- It aims to understand emotional and psychological impacts, not just physical.
- Patients will answer questionnaires several times over a year.
- Many types of plastic and cosmetic surgeries are included.
- Your participation helps improve future patient care and understanding.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time without consequence.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 or over. You must be planning to have one of the plastic surgery operations listed by the researchers. These include breast enlargement, reduction, and lifts, as well as operations on the face like facelifts, nose reshaping (rhinoplasty), and eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty).
Other eligible surgeries include tummy tucks (abdominoplasty), arm lifts (brachioplasty), thigh lifts (cruroplasty), and liposuction. The study also includes some gender affirmation surgeries, such as breast enlargement, facial feminisation, and chest surgery (thoracoplasty), as well as treatments like Botox and hyaluronic acid injections.
There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. You can't take part if you are pregnant, have recently given birth, or are breastfeeding. Minors (under 18) are also not eligible. The study also cannot include individuals who are receiving psychiatric care, or those who are in prison or under certain legal protection measures.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you planning one of the listed plastic or cosmetic surgeries?
- Are you NOT pregnant, breastfeeding, or just given birth?
- Are you currently NOT receiving psychiatric care?
- Are you NOT in prison or under certain legal protection?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will be asked to complete some questionnaires. You'll fill these out at a few different times: once before your surgery, then again three months after your operation, and a final time 12 months (one year) after your operation. These questionnaires will ask you questions about how you feel about yourself. You will also have a physical examination as part of your normal pre-operative and follow-up care. There are no extra medications or treatments involved beyond your planned surgery. This means the study will follow your progress over one year in total, simply by asking about your feelings and checking your health as usual.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- Consultation Office of Dr. Emmanuel DELAYVerified postcodeLyon, France
- Hospices Civils of Lyon - Croix-Rousse hospitalVerified postcodeLyon, France
Common questions
What is the main goal of this study?
The study wants to find out if plastic surgery helps people feel better about themselves over time.
What kind of surgery counts for this study?
Many types, including breast surgeries, facelifts, nose jobs, tummy tucks, liposuction, and some gender affirmation surgeries.
How long will I be involved if I join?
You'll be involved for about a year, completing questionnaires before surgery and then at 3 and 12 months afterward.
Will I get any special treatment in the study?
No, you will receive your planned surgery and normal follow-up care. The study just involves answering questionnaires.
Can I change my mind after joining?
Yes, you can choose to leave the study at any point, and it won't affect your medical care.
How to find out more
Hugo DESPERT
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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