Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is also known as Body dysmorphia or Dysmorphobia. It is a psychiatric disorder in which the affected person is obsessed over a serious, superficial flaw which is either imagined or is a negligible defect on any part of the body. Body Dysmorphic disorder can be a debilitating mental illness that can interfere with the social, professional and personal life of the individual and lower his/her self esteem and confidence. Almost 1 to 2 per cent of the world’s total population meets all the diagnostic criteria for this disorder.

Individuals suffering from this disorder have an imprecise or exaggerated opinion about how they look and are obsessed with various physical characteristics or perceived flaws such as facial features and skin imperfections. They often think of themselves as unattractive or blemished even when others reassure them that they look good and their so-called flaws are negligible or unnoticeable. This obsession may reach such an extent, that the individual may seek plastic surgery or help from a dermatologist to help them get rid of their perceived imperfections. This disorder is closely related to and occurs along with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

Symptoms of Body Dysmorphic Disorder:

Obsessive thoughts about the perceived flaw or defect.

Comparing one’s appearance to that of others frequently.

Repeatedly checking the appearance of the particular body part as perceived to be unattractive in mirrors.

Wearing excessive make-up, perfume, clothes or scarves to hide the flaw.

Not willing to have pictures taken.

Frequently feeling or looking at the perceived flaw.

Having delusional thoughts about the perceived flaw.

Withdrawal from friends, family and all forms of social interaction on account of the flaw.

Anxiety accompanied with panic attacks.

Feeling self conscious when in a social gathering and thinking that others mock at the perceived flaw.

Excessive researching on the perceived defect.

Seeking plastic surgery or dermal treatment irrespective of getting contrary opinions or medical recommendations.

Diagnosis:

A person affected with BDD must meet the following criteria:

Obsession with an imagined or negligible defect in physical appearance.

Clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational and personal areas of functioning caused due the obsession.

The preoccupation is accompanied by other mental disorders such as dissatisfaction with the shape or nose or figure, Anorexia Nervosa etc.

Tests:

Most psychologists and psychiatrists give out a questionnaire known as the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire that is used to establish if the individual is suffering from the disorder or not. The doctor may ask questions based on your obsession, compulsions and unhappiness caused due to the perceived flaw. He/she may also talk to your family and friends about your condition.