Health officials have emphasised the importance of assessing individuals seeking cosmetic procedures for body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). According to new draft guidelines, healthcare professionals should refrain from performing cosmetic surgeries on patients likely to have BDD and instead refer them to mental health specialists for further evaluation.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has proposed this measure as part of efforts to improve the identification of BDD and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) among patients. The guidance also encourages healthcare workers to consider assessing those presenting with depression and anxiety for OCD and BDD, with particular attention given to individuals with autism or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
OCD is characterised by persistent obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours, while BDD, sometimes called body dysmorphia, involves excessive preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance. NICE highlighted that healthcare professionals often do not routinely inquire about intrusive thoughts or appearance-related worries, even though patients may not volunteer this information without specific questioning.
READ MORE: Clarkson’s Farm’s Kaleb Cooper Welcomes New Puppy to His Family
READ MORE: Long-awaited upgrade ends ‘missing link’ on A417 today
The draft guidelines recommend that healthcare providers ask structured questions regarding appearance concerns prior to any cosmetic procedure. If a patient’s responses suggest the possibility of BDD, the procedure should be postponed, and the patient should be referred to a specialist for assessment. NICE notes that performing cosmetic treatments on someone with suspected BDD can exacerbate their distress and symptoms.
NICE also acknowledged that OCD and BDD are frequently under-recognised, and called on professionals to normalise discussions around these conditions, helping to reduce the stigma, shame, and fear often associated with them. Early identification aims to intervene before symptoms intensify.
It is estimated that OCD affects approximately 1.2% of the population, while BDD affects around 2%. Eric Power, interim director of the Centre for Guidelines at NICE, stated: “People with obsessive compulsive disorder and body dysmorphic disorder can experience symptoms for a long time before they receive the right diagnosis and support. These conditions are often misunderstood, and many people find them difficult to talk about because of embarrassment, shame or fear of being judged.”
He added, “Our draft recommendations aim to help healthcare professionals recognise symptoms earlier, ask the right questions and support people to access appropriate treatment sooner. Earlier identification can help ensure people receive care that reflects their needs, preferences and circumstances, rather than waiting until symptoms become more severe or reach crisis point.”