EFFECTS OF CORRECTIVE SURGERY ON BODY DYSMORPHIA IN ADOLESCENTS AND ADULTS WITH STRABISMUS

Abstract

Introduction: Body dysmorphia is a psychological disorder characterized by dissatisfaction with one's physical image. Correction of triggering factors, such as strabismus, can reduce anxiety and improve body acceptance. Objectives: To evaluate the effects of strabismus corrective surgery on body dysmorphia in adolescents (12-18 years) and adults (>19 years). Methods: Observational case-control study with 29 subjects, divided into G12-18 and G19+, who underwent surgery. The Body-Image Dysphoria-Short Form (SIBID-S) and the DASS-21 scale (depression, anxiety, stress) were applied. Data were analyzed by two-way mixed ANOVA with Tukey's post-hoc (p<0.05). Results: There was a significant reduction in dysmorphia after surgery (G19+: 55.25±5.09 to 18.06±5.09; G12-18: 49.10±6.06 to 13.09±6.06; p<0.001). Pre-surgery, dysmorphia correlated with DASS-21 (Stress r:0.39; Depression r:0.42; Anxiety r:0.39; p<0.05). Post-surgery, there was no correlation. Discussions: Strabismus is directly related to dysmorphia, which contributes to psychological symptoms. Surgery normalized DASS-21 scores, demonstrating efficacy in improving mental health. Conclusions: Surgical correction of strabismus significantly reduces body dysmorphia and normalizes anxiety, depression and stress levels, improving the emotional well-being of patients.