Study: Breast Enhancement Boosts Self-Esteem, Sexuality

March 22, 2007 -

Breast augmentation is one of the most sought after cosmetic procedures in America. Since 2000, the number of procedures performed has jumped 476 percent, with more than 300,000 women undergoing augmentation procedures every year. These numbers raise a pertinent question: Is bigger really better?

New research is suggesting that maybe it is. Cynthia Figueroa-Haas, a professor at the University of Florida’s College of Nursing, recently conducted a study to assess patients’ perceptions of self-esteem and sexuality prior to and following cosmetic breast enhancement.

The Study

According to the study—which involved 84 women between the ages of 21 and 57—the patients’ average self-esteem score increased 4 points from 20.7 to 24.9 on the widely accepted, 30-point Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale.

The women’s average sexuality score, which is based on the 36-point Female Sexual Function Index, also increased several points from 27.2 to 31.4. Specifically, the participants showed substantial increases in sexual desire (78.6 percent), arousal (81 percent), and satisfaction (57 percent).

The Ideal Candidate

Figueroa-Hass warned, however, that plastic surgery should not be viewed as a cure-all for self-esteem and/or sexuality issues.

“There may be patients who will never be satisfied with their bodies no matter how much surgery they receive or feel that their life will completely change after plastic surgery,” she said. These are not ideal candidates for surgery and should seek further counseling to address their underlying psychological issues.”

The best patients for cosmetic surgery are those “who seek improvements in certain physical areas.” For such people, “plastic surgery can be a very positive experience,” Figueroa-Haas said.

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