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The Relationship between Fear of Body Image and Attitude toward Cosmetic Surgery in Medical Students at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2023

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Dermatology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran

2 Faculty of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran

10.30476/smsj.2025.102766.1539

Abstract

Introduction: An individual’s body image is a dynamic construct that encompasses feelings and attitudes toward their physical appearance. A negative body image is a key driver for undergoing cosmetic surgery, which is among the most common surgical procedures worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between fear of body image and attitudes toward cosmetic surgery among medical students at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (Shiraz, Iran).
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 on medical students at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. Data were collected using two standardized questionnaires: the Fear of Body Image Scale (Littleton et al., 2005) and the Attitude toward Cosmetic Surgery scale (Henderson et al., 2005). Data analysis was performed using an independent t-test, ANOVA, and logistic regression at a significance level of 0.05. All statistical tests were performed with SPSS software (version 24).
Results: A total of 352 students participated in the study, comprising 190 (54%) men and 162 (46%) women. The mean scores for fear of body image and attitude toward cosmetic surgery were 48.6 and 38.5, respectively. Height, weight, and attitude toward cosmetic surgery showed a significant relationship with fear of body image (P<0.05). The logistic regression model indicated that a positive attitude toward cosmetic surgery and the absence of a history of cosmetic surgery or filler injections were strongly associated with an increased likelihood of fear of body image (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The findings revealed a significant relationship between fear of body image and attitudes toward cosmetic surgery. Therefore, implementing strategies to improve body image could effectively reduce the demand for unnecessary cosmetic surgeries.

Keywords

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Available Online from 01 October 2025
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