The dangerous dozen--avoiding potential problem patients in cosmetic surgery.

Cosmetic surgery patients can be the most satisfied or dissatisfied. Patient satisfaction is achieved not only from a good aesthetic result but also by meeting patients' psychosocial goals. Although cosmetic surgery increasingly is becoming mainstream, some patients have psychologic conditions, behavioral patterns, or life situations that predispose them to be less than satisfied with their outcome. This article categorizes patients who pose risks by having cosmetic surgery. By looking for characteristics, surgeons can determine whether patients are desirable candidates. The ultimate goal is not to operate but to achieve patient satisfaction.