<h4 style="text-align:justify;">Lack of empathy to another less successful aesthetic surgery patient</h4>Inability to empathize patients, who suffer from unsuccessful aesthetic surgery by another patient of aesthetic surgery might be linked with few psychological mechanisms. It could be, that those patients, who have achieved their desired look by aesthetic surgery, may idealize aesthetic surgery as a positive, transformative experience. In psychological terms, the psychic process of idealization means attribution of excessively positive qualities to someone, something, or even an experience. Such psychological process is also related to the opposite – devaluation process, when attributing only negative&nbsp;qualities to reduce perceived value or importance. For a person who idealise, its either one or another, there is no middle point view. In such perspective, acknowledging unsuccessful outcomes of someone’s aesthetic surgery can disrupt the idealization of aesthetic surgery, making it easier to devalue, blame or judge other less successful patients, rather than empathize them.Similarly, for patients who have made significant emotional or financial investments in aesthetic surgery, empathizing with failed surgeries can create cognitive dissonance. They may resist empathizing because it challenges their own choices and may bring up feelings of regret or doubt.It can also be related to projection of unresolved insecurities. If someone has unacknowledged dissatisfaction with their own aesthetic surgery results, they may project these feelings onto others by minimizing or invalidating their experiences.Such phenomenon might be also linked with severe narcissism traits, where those who don’t achieve “perfect” results, wants to be distanced as “faulty”, because they don’t match high standards of such a person.&nbsp;Inability to empathize less successful aesthetic patients might be also linked with avoidance of negative feelings. Empathizing with someone’s negative experience can be painful or uncomfortable, especially if it resonates with personal insecurities. Avoiding empathy becomes a defence mechanism that allows people to maintain emotional distance.&nbsp;Finally, inability to empathize less successful aesthetic patients might be related to faulty belief in personal responsibility for surgery success. This is a rather cold and mechanistic attitude, again, inherent for persons with narcissistic personality disorder. Those persons might believe that successful surgery outcomes are solely a result of personal choices, like selecting the “right” surgeon, following instructions, or having a “positive” attitude. This belief can lead to reduced empathy, as it assumes that the person with a negative outcome is somehow a “looser” i.e., didn’t do the right choices. In addition, persons who view aesthetic surgery outcomes as fully controllable may struggle to empathize with others, as they may believe that poor outcomes result from avoidable errors rather than factors outside one’s control.<h4 style="text-align:justify;">Speaking up after having had unsuccessful aesthetic surgery</h4>Experiencing isolation after an unsuccessful aesthetic surgery is a common reaction, as many people feel self-conscious, disappointed, or distressed about the outcome. This isolation might stem from a desire to avoid judgment, a loss of confidence, or difficulty processing the emotional impact.Speaking up after an unsuccessful aesthetic surgery can be hard experience, however, addressing your concerns openly is important for finding resolution, gaining support, and considering potential next steps.&nbsp;Before speaking up, it is important to give yourself space to proceed your feelings – go through disappointment, anger, or sadness. Recognizing and accepting such emotions will help you to communicate more calmly and clearly. It is also worth noticing, if you are not blaming yourself for making aesthetic surgery choices. Remember that surgical outcomes are sometimes unpredictable. This is a challenging experience, and it’s not your fault.Don’t be alone with your concerns. Share your experience with trusted people, who can provide emotional support. Explain how the outcome has affected you and what you’re considering next. Loved ones can accompany you to consultations, help with research, or simply listen as you process your experience. Support from others can make a big difference in coping with your feelings.If you feel ready to speak up for your problems, request a follow up appointment with your surgeon. A face-to-face discussion with your surgeon can provide an opportunity to address the outcome and ask questions. Explain that you’d like to discuss the results in detail and explore possible next steps. When speaking with your surgeon, calmly explain why you’re unhappy with the results, referencing specific aspects rather than general dissatisfaction. For example, say, “I was expecting X, but I’m seeing Y.” Inquire if the surgeon recommends any revisions or treatments to address the issues. Many surgeons have policies for addressing unsatisfactory outcomes, and some may offer solutions at a reduced cost or no charge. Be prepared for a positive or negative response. Your surgeon may respond helpfully or defensively. Preparing for both scenarios can help you stay calm and reserved, regardless of how the conversation unfolds. If the surgeon dismisses your concerns, consider seeking alternative solutions. Some surgeons may not be receptive, and continuing with them might not be in your best interest. If you feel unheard or unsatisfied with the surgeon’s response, seeking a second opinion from another board-certified professional can provide clarity on corrective options and set realistic expectations. Ask the new surgeon about the potential for improvement, the risks of additional procedures, and any other concerns. A fresh perspective can help you understand the best path forward.You may find people with similar experiences in aesthetic surgery support groups or online communities. Many online forums or support groups are dedicated to people who have gone through similar experiences. Hearing others’ stories can offer comfort, ideas for next steps, and reassurance that you’re not alone. These communities can be a safe space to discuss your experience, receive advice, and gain perspective from people who understand what you’re going through.Be kind and patient with yourself. Avoid making impulsive decisions. Feeling dissatisfied can create pressure to seek immediate solutions, but taking time to thoroughly consider corrective options can lead to a better outcome. Think about what specific results would make you feel satisfied, and use these as a guide when exploring options for potential revisions.Give yourself a compassionate stance. Acknowledge that this is a difficult experience and that it’s okay to feel disappointed. Being kind to yourself can help alleviate some of the emotional burden. Stop negative internal dialogue. Spend time doing things that make you feel good about yourself and remind you of your strengths, whether it’s a hobby, exercise, or spending time with supportive friends.<h4 style="text-align:justify;">Changing negative viewpoint on aesthetic surgery patients</h4>Changing a negative viewpoint on aesthetic surgery patients involves understanding the complex motivations behind these choices and fostering empathy, acceptance, and open-mindedness.&nbsp;It is important to consider the diversity of motivations of people who undergo aesthetic surgery.&nbsp; People choose aesthetic surgery for numerous reasons beyond vanity, such as boosting self-esteem, recovering from psychological trauma, coping with body image issues, social pressure, or self-esteem struggles or addressing medical or congenital conditions. Realizing that each person has unique motivations can help reduce judgment and negative attitude towards these patients. Educating yourself on these issues can help you understand that surgery is sometimes a tool for emotional well-being. In addition, people have the right to make decisions about their bodies. Valuing personal autonomy, especially in choices that don’t affect others, can help create a more accepting attitude. Some people might view aesthetic surgery as a way of self-expression, like style or fashion. Accepting that these choices are personal expressions can help you see them as valid and individual rather than negative.It is easy to be harsh and judgemental. Appreciating that people may simply be seeking confidence or comfort with their appearance can shift a critical perspective to a more empathetic one. Consider how you might feel if you had a physical feature that deeply affected your self-esteem. Imagining their perspective can help foster empathy and reduce judgment.Learn to understand aesthetic surgery patients and their stories. If you know people who have undergone aesthetic surgery, consider asking (respectfully) about their experiences. Listening to firsthand accounts can provide insight into their motivations and reduce negative assumptions.It is also interesting to explore, how you have developed such a negative views on aesthetic surgery patients. Often, these beliefs are influenced by cultural or social biases. Identifying these biases can help you let go of unhelpful judgments. Sometimes, our judgments are reflections of our own insecurities or societal conditioning. Pay attention to moments when critical thoughts about aesthetic surgery arise and ask yourself what’s driving these thoughts.&nbsp;It’s common to assume that people who undergo aesthetic surgery are superficial and vain, but this is often untrue. Try questioning stereotypes by focusing on individuals’ stories instead of broad assumptions.&nbsp;All in all, shift black and white attitude towards aesthetic surgery. For many, aesthetic surgery improves self-confidence, enhances quality of life, and can even help them feel more socially accepted. Some people find significant emotional relief or self-empowerment from aesthetic surgery, which can be life-changing. Knowing the positive impact, it has for people can help balance a critical view.

Inability to empathize patients, who suffer from unsuccessful aesthetic surgery by another patient of aesthetic surgery might be linked with few psychological mechanisms. It could be, that those patients, who have achieved their desired look by aesthetic surgery, may idealize aesthetic surgery as a positive, transformative experience.&nbsp;

Lack of empathy to another less successful aesthetic surgery patient

Inability to empathize patients, who suffer from unsuccessful aesthetic surgery by another patient of aesthetic surgery might be linked with few psychological m

Lack of empathy to another less successful aesthetic surgery patient author: Medical Psychologist Dr. Neringa Bagdonaite. Inability to empathize patients, who suffer from unsuccessful aesthetic surgery by another patient of aesthetic surgery might be linked with few psychological m

Lack of empathy to another less successful aesthetic surgery patient

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