A recent study shows that female veterans have the highest rates of suicide attempts compared to non-veterans, being 166.1% higher. They are also 2.2 times more likely to die by suicide than civilian women. Furthermore, the suicide rate among women veterans increased by 61% between 2005 and 2017.

Currently, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not cover plastic or cosmetic surgery for women veterans unless it is deemed medically necessary. This policy overlooks the unique needs and challenges faced by women who have served our country. These challenges include physical changes resulting from service-related injuries, psychological trauma, readjustment challenges, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), military sexual trauma (MST), trouble sleeping, physical injury, and Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). 

It’s important to highlight that nearly 22% of female service members meet the criteria for BDD. This is a serious concern and not a diagnosis to be brushed off as an ‘adolescent phase.’ BDD can be detrimental to a person’s well-being, often involving obsessive thoughts about perceived physical flaws, which service-related injuries and the stress of military life can exacerbate.

As a female veteran suffering from these disparities myself, I understand how overcoming the challenges we face after leaving service can play a pivotal role in enhancing self-esteem, body image, and overall mental health. These improvements have the potential to reduce the risk of depression and suicide attempts. 

According to a study published in JAMA Surgery, nearly 16% of all service members are women, many of whom return home with physical scars that affect their self-esteem and quality of life (JAMA Surgery, 2018). Yet, they are denied access to procedures that could help them regain confidence and reintegrate into civilian life more comfortably.

There is growing evidence that certain elective surgeries not currently offered by the VA can have a positive impact on veterans’ mental health outcomes. These include Reconstructive Surgery, Scar Revision Surgery, Breast Reconstruction, Skin Grafts, Rhinoplasty, Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck), Facial Treatments, and Liposuction.

In light of these considerations, we call on the VA to:

- Review and revise its policies for cosmetic/plastic surgeries that contribute to the mental and emotional well-being of women veterans. 

- Conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis to understand the long-term benefits of such a policy change regarding healthcare outcomes and financial implications.

- Engage with female veterans, healthcare professionals, and mental health experts to explore the potential impact and logistics of implementing this policy change.

This policy change is not just about improving healthcare services; it is about recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by our women veterans. It is a step towards honoring our service and ensuring the well-being after serving our nation.

Please sign this petition showing your support for policy change at the VA.