​Have a List of Cosmetic Procedures You Want? Here's Something You Need to Do First! by Donna John

Sprinkled between all the selfies on Facebook are ads for skin creams, weight management shakes, hair restoration, cosmetic procedures and butt lifting yoga pants. So it’s no surprise that many people have a list of cosmetic procedures they want to do. This is when we must be mindful of body dysmorphia, according to Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of the Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery who has appeared on national programs such as Good Morning America and 20/20.

When we have a distorted perception of our appearance it can lead to an addiction to cosmetic procedures. Dr. Brandow adds that it is very important for cosmetic surgeons to screen people to see if they have signs of body dysmorphia. “Ethically, when someone comes in with a list of flaws they want to fix it is up to us professionals to advise them appropriately. When someone is addicted to surgeries and tries to ‘fix’ the same body part repeatedly, that’s a red flag.”

What should you do before heading out for plastic surgery? Dr. Sanam Hafeez, a NYC-based licensed clinical psychologist and founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Service, suggests keeping an appreciation journal and write down 10 things you appreciate about yourself and your life. This will lessen harsh self-criticism and the need to measure up to any physical ideal.