11 Jul Am I Addicted to Cosmetic Surgery? The Pain of Perfectionism
Have you ever wondered ‘am I addicted to Cosmetic Surgery?’ You’re not alone. It’s a question I have pondered myself.
In industries where appearances often equate to career opportunities, many professionals and high-profile individuals quietly battle an escalating cycle of cosmetic procedures. What starts as a confidence boost can spiral into cosmetic surgery addiction, a psychological compulsion that’s rarely talked about, but deeply impactful.
What Drives the Addiction?
While wanting to look and feel your best is natural, addiction to surgery stems from more than vanity:
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD): Individuals perceive flaws that others don’t see, leading them to seek repeated surgical “fixes.”
- Perfectionism & Public Pressure: Constant scrutiny, especially in celebrity circles, can fuel an obsession with physical “improvement.”
- ADHD Links: Those with ADHD may be more prone to impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and hyperfocus, increasing vulnerability to seeking quick aesthetic changes to soothe deeper insecurities.
My personal Journey…
Aged 22 I had my first cosmetic procedure and over the following 26 years I went on to have another 16 procedures including revisions. Affected by all the above, BDD, perfectionism and ADHD, it’s fair to say I have invested in evolving my appearance.
What I have learnt during this time is that self-acceptance and self-love are key elements to nurture so that any decisions I make about surgery are not coming from a place of low self-esteem and lack of self-worth. I achieved this through a combination of hypnotherapy and Inner Child Healing, and it’s one of the reasons I am so passionate about the work I do. In my opinion it’s essential to nurture self-love and acceptance alongside any cosmetic surgery choices.
However, if you’re exploring the question ‘am I addicted to cosmetic surgery?’ Here are the warning signs to look out for…
Warning Signs of Cosmetic Surgery Addiction
Recognising the red flags can help you intervene before harm occurs:
- Constant dissatisfaction, regardless of surgical outcomes
- Obsessive comparison to others’ appearances
- Seeking multiple consultations for the same perceived flaw
- Financial strain due to repeated procedures
- Neglecting relationships, work, or health for surgery plans
- Emotional distress when surgery is delayed or denied
Beyond the Scalpel
If you recognise these patterns, know that help exists. Therapy, hypnotherapy, and EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) can help explore the root causes of self-image struggles.
At Rebecca Dakin, I work discreetly with high-profile clients to address:
- Underlying trauma contributing to BDD
- ADHD-related impulsivity and hyperfocus on appearance
- Emotional regulation and self-esteem beyond physical looks
Remember: Lasting confidence comes from within, not just the mirror. If cosmetic surgery is consuming your thoughts or life, it may be time to explore healing from the inside out, and that’s where I come in.
Contact me to discuss how I can support your journey to self-acceptance and authentic confidence.
Book a call with me here … https://calendly.com30-minute-clarity-call/
More on perfectionism here – https://therapy-for-perfectionism-breaking-free/