Looking Better Follows Seeing Better: Exploring Cosmetic Procedure Trends Following Cataract Surgery-A Retrospective Cohort Study.

[BACKGROUND] Cataract surgery, one of the most commonly performed surgery worldwide, not only restores visual function but may also influence patients' psychosocial behavior.

[OBJECTIVES] This study aimed to investigate whether cataract surgery influences the trend for cosmetic surgery, particularly facial aesthetic procedures, by utilizing the TriNetX database. We hypothesized that improved postoperative vision may prompt patients to seek cosmetic procedures due to the change of self-perception.

[METHODS] We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the TriNetX US Collaborative Network. Two cohorts were defined: patients with cataract extraction status (CES) and those who did not (nCES). 1:1 propensity score matching was applied. We assessed the relative risk (RR) of cosmetic procedures and applied Cox proportional hazards models to identify independent predictors of blepharoplasty. Adverse events, including dry eye syndrome and visual disturbances, were evaluated in the CES subgroup.

[RESULTS] Patients in the CES cohort were significantly more likely to undergo blepharoplasty (RR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.70-1.96) and rhytidectomy (RR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.22-2.28). Adverse events, including dry eye syndrome (RR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.66-1.95) and impaired vision (RR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.24-1.47), were observed more frequently in patients undergoing blepharoplasty post-cataract surgery. Multivariable Cox regression confirmed cataract surgery as an independent predictor of blepharoplasty (HR: 6.31, 95% CI: 2.57-15.50, p < 0.0001).

[CONCLUSIONS] Cataract surgery is associated with an increased trend for certain cosmetic surgeries, particularly facial procedures. However, blepharoplasty after cataract surgery may elevate the risk of ocular complications, emphasizing the need for careful postoperative care.