Cosmetic surgery: when it never feels like enough
Wanting to change something about how you look is common, and for many people a procedure is a considered, one-off choice. For others, each treatment brings relief that doesn’t last, and their attention moves straight to the next flaw. If that sounds familiar, it may be worth looking at what’s driving it before booking anything else.
Before your next procedure
Constant worry about flaws that other people barely notice can be a sign of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). BDD is a recognised mental health condition and it’s treatable, usually with a talking therapy called CBT. If this sounds like you, please speak to your GP before booking another procedure.
If these thoughts are leaving you feeling hopeless, call Samaritans free on 116 123, any time.
Signs it’s become a problem
The NHS lists signs of BDD that include:
- Worrying a lot about a part of your body, especially your face
- Often comparing your looks with other people’s
- Checking mirrors a lot, or avoiding them altogether
- Spending a long time hiding a flaw with make-up, clothing or grooming
- Picking at your skin to make it smooth
Where to get help in the UK
- Your GP. The best first step. They can talk through your worries and refer you for treatment. NHS guide to body dysmorphia
- NHS Talking Therapies. In England you can refer yourself for free.
- BDD Foundation. A UK charity with information and a directory of support groups. bddfoundation.org
Where hypnotherapy fits
Hypnotherapy is not a treatment for BDD, and I don’t offer it as one. If you think you may have BDD, your GP and a talking therapy should come first.
Where I can help is alongside that care, with self-confidence, anxiety about how you’re seen, and the urge to keep checking and comparing.
Before we work together I’ll ask about any treatment you’re having. If I think you need that support first, I’ll tell you honestly.
Common questions
Is it confidential?
Yes. What you tell me stays between us. As with any therapist, the only exception is if I believed you or someone else were at serious risk of harm.
I just want a confidence boost before a procedure. Can we work together?
Possibly. We can talk about it on a consultation call. If anything you tell me suggests BDD, I’ll suggest you speak to your GP first.
Talk it through
If you’d like help with confidence alongside any other support you’re getting, book a £49 consultation call and we’ll talk about whether sessions would help.
Information on this page is based on the NHS guide to body dysmorphia. Checked October 2026.