Patients seek plastic surgery in order to correct a real or fantasied defect in their physical appearance or in their mental representation of their physical appearance. There are three groups: those who are emotionally healthy and need an operation; those somewhat disturbed who need an operation; those with an exaggerated inferiority sense who do not need an operation. To be successful, the operation must not only correct a defect but must also aid in changing the mental image of the individual. Emotional disturbance involving marked exhibitionistic conflicts or hypochondriacal concerns is a contraindication for plastic surgery.