A National Survey of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons’ Experience With Mandatory Body Dysmorphic Disorder Screening in Australia

Background: In 2023, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency introduced mandatory psychological screening for cosmetic surgery patients with the aim of preoperatively identify individuals with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Objectives: This study assessed the impact of mandatory psychological screening tools on Australian plastic surgeons' practices. It evaluated surgeon confidence in screening tools, referral and diagnosis rates, and the range of specific screening tools used. Methods: A 12-question electronic survey was distributed to members of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons and the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed to summarize the results. Results: One hundred and thirty-six responses were received (27% response rate). Most respondents (81%) were male, with an average of 17 years of practice experience. The majority (84%) referred