Difficult Personalities and Personality Disorders in the Cosmetic Clinic

This chapter focuses on the specific types of personality disorders that are most relevant in the aesthetic practice and how to skillfully recognize and manage patients with personality disorders. These include borderline, histrionic, obsessive compulsive, and narcissistic personality disorders. For each personality disorder, a case scenario is followed by clinically relevant tips such as accurate recognition of the personality disorder and how to approach the patient to achieve the best outcome for both the patient and the provider. Personality style is different from diagnosable personality disorders in that personality disorders are characterized by enduring patterns of maladaptive thinking and behavior that deviate from the cultural norm and are extremely rigid. Histrionic personality disorder is often seen in patients with body dysmorphic disorder who seek cosmetic consultations and has been found to be present in 9.7% of cosmetic surgery patients.