Assessing Patient Satisfaction and Quality of Life Outcomes Following Plastic Surgery Procedures in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Aleid Abdulsalam Mohammed , Alhije Fatima Essa , Alghmdi Rana Saeed , Mushari Fahad Yahya Ahmed , Sabi Ahmed Yahya , Alnami Raad Ahmed , Bazbooz Mohammed Hussain , Alsaati Ahmed Abdulaziz , Aleid Abbas Fadeil , Albinsaad Loai Saleh 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Plastic surgery has gained significant popularity and acceptance in Saudi Arabia in recent years. It is a rapidly growing field, driven by numerous factors such as societal influences, cultural norms, media exposure and the desire for enhanced physical appearances. While there is a growing demand for plastic surgery procedures, there is a scarcity of research investigating the demographic characteristics of patients who undergo these procedures, their satisfaction levels and their impact on quality of life. The objectives of this study are first to investigate patient satisfaction level and quality of life outcomes for individuals undergoing plastic surgery in Saudi Arabia. Second, the study aims to explore physicians’ perspectives on the impact of patient satisfaction on quality of life and its influencing factors.

Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Saudi Arabia from June to August 2023 including a total of 1107 participants. Five hundred and twenty-seven patients who underwent plastic surgery procedures completed a comprehensive questionnaire consisting of demographic data and validated Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire and the Quality of Life Scale. In parallel, a separate survey was conducted amongst 527 physicians in Saudi Arabia during the same study period examining physicians’ perspectives on the correlation between patient satisfaction and quality of life outcomes, as well as the factors that influence this relationship. Furthermore, a literature review was conducted to gather existing research on patient satisfaction and quality of life to inform the study findings.

Results:
The survey responses from 527 patients indicated a predominantly young female population with diverse educational backgrounds, primarily having a bachelor’s degree. The majority of participants expressed satisfaction with the overall outcome of their surgery accounting for 76.8%, and 46% of them reported a significant improvement in physical appearance. A substantial proportion of 87% did not experience any post-operative complications. Participants’ overall satisfaction with the plastic surgery yielded a mean score of 3.75 (standard deviation = 0.975) and a positive statistically significant correlation between patient satisfaction and quality of life outcomes. Five hundred and twenty-seven physicians’ perspective revealed a consensus on the association between patient satisfaction and overall quality of life, with many physicians acknowledging the positive effects of higher patient satisfaction on psychological well-being, self-esteem and body image. The type of plastic surgery procedure and the duration of the recovery period were identified by 81% as factors influencing patient satisfaction.

Conclusion:
The study findings reveal a positive correlation between patient satisfaction and improved quality of life. It highlights the holistic impact of patient contentment on various well-being aspects in patients undergoing plastic surgery. Furthermore, these findings underscore the importance of pre- and post-operative patient care and education.