Wellness with Will - Impact of Beauty Standards on Our Mental Health

Summary

In this insightful episode of 'Wellness with Will,' Dr. Sujata Gaj, a leading medical aesthetician, discusses the crucial link between aesthetic treatments and mental health. She highlights the impact of beauty procedures on self-esteem and confidence, especially in the digital age where appearance plays a significant role. Dr. Gaj shares her thorough consultation process, emphasizing the importance of addressing both physical and emotional needs. She also talks about the significance of professional care, ethical standards, and how diet and lifestyle choices can influence skin health. A must-watch for anyone considering aesthetic treatments and seeking expert guidance on achieving overall well-being.

Takeaways

• 😀 Aesthetic procedures, such as facelifts and body enhancements, can have a significant impact on mental health, boosting confidence but also raising emotional concerns.
• 😀 Self-perception has been increasingly influenced by digital technology, especially through Zoom and social media, where distorted images often lead to heightened insecurities.
• 😀 Dr. Gaj emphasizes the importance of addressing emotional well-being before undergoing aesthetic treatments, ensuring that the underlying psychological motivations are understood.
• 😀 During consultations, Dr. Gaj spends up to an hour with patients to thoroughly understand their concerns, offering personalized solutions based on individual needs.
• 😀 Aesthetic treatments should have realistic expectations, with patients encouraged to understand the potential effects of mobile phone distortions and camera angles on their self-image.
• 😀 Regular consultations and maintenance are important for skin health, as skin, like the body, changes with age, lifestyle, and environmental factors.
• 😀 Surgery is sometimes necessary for more significant concerns, but Dr. Gaj stresses the importance of mental health assessments and referrals to appropriate specialists when needed.
• 😀 Dr. Gaj advocates for choosing only qualified, registered medical professionals for aesthetic procedures to avoid scams and unlicensed treatments.
• 😀 Healthy eating and hydration are essential for maintaining youthful and glowing skin, with specific advice to avoid excessive sugar and processed foods.
• 😀 Mental health plays a crucial role in how people perceive themselves, and aesthetic changes may not fully address deeper emotional concerns, making internal well-being equally important.
• 😀 Dr. Gaj highlights that lifestyle factors such as exercise, sunlight, and good nutrition (including Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin-rich foods) contribute to overall skin health.

Q & A

How does mental health affect people's decisions to undergo medical aesthetic treatments?

Mental health plays a significant role in people's decision to pursue medical aesthetics. Many individuals seek procedures like botox or fillers to improve their appearance because they believe it will boost their confidence. However, it’s essential to address any underlying mental health concerns and ensure that the desire for cosmetic treatments is not driven by unrealistic expectations or emotional distress.

What are some common factors that patients bring up during consultations regarding their appearance?

Patients often come in with concerns about aging signs like wrinkles, acne, or uneven skin texture. Other common issues include concerns over small blemishes, frown lines, or how their skin reacts to environmental factors. A thorough consultation involves understanding the patient's personal expectations, lifestyle, and any emotional factors influencing their desire for treatment.

How does technology, like selfies and video calls, impact people's self-esteem and decision to seek aesthetic treatments?

With the rise of selfies, video calls, and virtual meetings, people are more conscious of how they appear on digital screens. The distorted views created by phone cameras, especially through selfies, can make small imperfections feel much larger, leading people to feel insecure and seek treatments to improve their appearance.

What steps does Dr. Sujata Gaj take during the consultation process to understand a patient's concerns?

Dr. Gaj takes a comprehensive approach by starting with a detailed conversation about the patient's skin history, family history, current lifestyle, and any medications they are using. The goal is to understand the root cause of their concerns, whether related to aging, acne, or lifestyle choices, and then recommend appropriate treatments or skincare regimens.

Do patients need to come back for multiple consultations, or is one enough to solve their issues?

Multiple consultations are typically needed. Skin is dynamic, not static, and changes over time due to factors like aging, diet, and lifestyle. Depending on the treatment plan, patients may need follow-up consultations every 3 to 6 months to assess the progress and adjust treatments. Regular maintenance is key to keeping skin healthy and looking its best.

What happens if a patient feels their issue requires surgery, such as a BBL or other invasive treatments?

If a patient feels that their issue is significant enough to require surgery, Dr. Gaj ensures that they understand their options and the psychological factors behind their desire for such a change. If necessary, Dr. Gaj refers them to certified plastic surgeons who can perform more invasive procedures. Mental health is always a consideration in these cases to ensure patients are making decisions for the right reasons.

What are some of the risks of seeking aesthetic treatments from non-professionals or unregistered practitioners?

Seeking treatments from unregistered practitioners can lead to unsafe procedures, poor results, and even serious complications. It's essential to ensure that any professional you visit is registered with the relevant medical boards, such as the Health Professionals Council and the Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Society of South Africa, to guarantee they are qualified and follow ethical guidelines.

What advice does Dr. Gaj offer to avoid the pitfalls of unprofessional aesthetic treatments?

Dr. Gaj advises that patients should always check if the practitioner is properly registered with professional bodies. This can be easily done through websites like aestheticdoctors.com. Additionally, patients should prioritize education and knowledge when selecting a practitioner to ensure they receive treatments that are safe, effective, and suited to their needs.

How does diet and lifestyle impact the health of our skin?

Diet and lifestyle play a crucial role in skin health. Processed foods high in sugar and trans fats can accelerate aging by causing the buildup of harmful molecules that damage skin. On the other hand, a balanced diet rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats can improve skin's appearance and resilience. Hydration and physical activity also contribute to healthy, glowing skin.

What role does mental health play in how we perceive our physical appearance?

Mental health is deeply connected to how we perceive ourselves physically. When people feel emotionally or psychologically distressed, it can manifest in their appearance through stress-related conditions like acne or premature aging. Addressing mental health and cultivating self-love can improve both emotional well-being and physical appearance. Healthy self-esteem and confidence are key to maintaining overall health.