Condition
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)
BDD is a preoccupation with one or more perceived flaws in appearance that other people cannot see or consider minor. It is important to note that people living with BDD look normal. The appearance flaws that they perceive are, in reality, minimal or non-existent.
Signs and symptoms
- Repeated mirror checking, or avoiding mirrors entirely
- Comparing one's appearance to others, or to photographs of oneself
- Camouflaging with makeup, hairstyles, clothing, or posture
- Seeking reassurance from family or partners about appearance
- Researching, requesting, or undergoing cosmetic procedures with little lasting relief
- Avoidance of social situations, photos, or being seen in particular lighting
- In adolescents and young men: muscle dysmorphia — preoccupation with not being lean or muscular enough
How therapy helps
Cognitive behavioural therapy for BDD
CBT tailored to BDD is the recommended first-line psychological treatment. It addresses the rituals (mirror checking, comparing, reassurance-seeking), the avoidance, and the underlying beliefs about appearance and self-worth. Where cosmetic procedures are being considered, careful clinical assessment is important — procedures rarely resolve BDD and often intensify it.
Read more about exposure and response prevention (ERP).
Who Dr Turner works with
Dr Turner's published clinical work includes BDD in adolescents and young adults, muscle dysmorphia, and the BDD/cosmetic-procedure relationship.
Frequently asked questions
Is BDD just vanity?+
No. BDD is a clinically significant condition characterised by distress, preoccupation, and impairment. The concern is not about wanting to look good — it is the persistent, painful belief that something is visibly wrong.
Will a cosmetic procedure help?+
Evidence indicates that cosmetic procedures rarely resolve BDD and often shift the preoccupation to a new feature. Psychological assessment before pursuing procedures is strongly recommended.
Can teenagers have BDD?+
Yes. BDD commonly begins in adolescence. Distinguishing typical body-image concern from BDD is part of the clinical assessment.
What is muscle dysmorphia?+
Muscle dysmorphia is a form of BDD where the preoccupation is with not being lean or muscular enough. It is most often seen in boys and young men and is frequently missed.
Related conditions
Sources & review
- NICE guideline: CBT tailored to BDD is the recommended first-line psychological treatment.
- Turner, C. et al. A pilot randomised controlled trial of CBT for body dysmorphic disorder (2015).
- Turner, C. et al. CBT for BDD in youth (2018); A clinician's quick guide to BDD (2025).
Last clinically reviewed: July 2026
This page is general clinical information and does not constitute personal clinical advice. For assessment and treatment, please make an enquiry.
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