Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a relatively common, underrecognized, and disabling body image disorder. BDD is characterized by serious emotional distress, preoccupation with some aspect of one's appearance (while others say that the individual looks fine) and compulsive behaviors or rituals. Individuals with BDD may undergo surgical procedures in an attempt to conceal or change the problematic body part(s).
Any aspect of a person's appearance can be the focus of concern. For example, a normal-appearing person may think s/he has a bad complexion or deep wrinkles, misshapen teeth, a big nose, an asymmetrical body, or one that is not sufficiently muscular. Others may see none of these perceived flaws or only a slight anomaly. These worries may lead to low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety; avoidance of social situations with family and friends; and problems with work or school.
Some clues to the presence of Body Dysmorphic Disorder:
- Excessive preoccupation or concern with a slight or imagined flaw in appearance
- Excessive grooming or camouflaging of the perceived flaw with clothing, make-up, a hat, one's hand, one's posture, etc.
- Frequent checking of appearance in mirrors or total avoidance of mirrors
- Frequent touching or measuring the feature of concern, or skin picking
- Excessive attention to the physical attractiveness of others, especially to the feature of concern constantly comparing one's appearance with others
- Feeling very anxious around other people and avoiding social situations because of the perceived flaw
- Frequent asking for reassurance about appearance
- Excessive reading or talking about the perceived flaw
- Using drugs (e.g. anabolic steroids) or excessive exercise or dieting to change one's appearance
- Seeking help from cosmetic surgeons, dermatologists, or dentists to remedy the perceived flaw, even after doctors have said that treatment isn't necessary or advisable.
How Mount Sinai Can Help
Evidence from recent experimental studies has given us a better understanding of the neurobiology of this disorder and how to treat it. In order to learn more about the disorder and improve treatment of people with BDD, we have several services available:
- For adolescents ages 16 and younger, a screening evaluation and treatment study is available at no cost.
- For adults over age 19, a private consultation (fee for service) may be available.
- For all those who suffer or think they may suffer from BDD, we can provide referrals to Mount Sinai and other local NYC psychiatrists, psychologists, and treatment services.
FDA-funded study sites
If you are in the Providence, RI area, please contact:
Butler Hospital, Providence, RI
BDD and Body Image Program
Tel: (401) 455-6466
If you are in the Boston, MA area, please contact:
Harvard/Massachusetts General, Boston, MA
Body Dysmorphic Disorder Clinic
Tel: (617) 643-3079
