The Impact of Cosmetic Surgery on Body Image

Cosmetic surgery has become a popular solution for those seeking to improve their self-image and boost their self-confidence by altering physical features they are unhappy with. Nonetheless, it is important to consider the potential risks and damaging consequences. This article explores both the positive and negative impacts of cosmetic surgery on self-concept and self-image.

What is a body image?

Body image is how a person thinks and feels about their physical appearance. This can be affected by many things, including:

• A person's thoughts
• Social norms
• What they see in the media

For example, if you don't like the shape of your nose, you might feel really unhappy and self-conscious about how you look. Poor body image can be made worse by things like social media or TV, which highlights how important it is to promote a positive body image and self-acceptance.

Reasons for choosing cosmetic surgery

Cosmetic surgery is an elective procedure that involves changing a person's physical appearance. In 2021, there were 7.1 million surgical and nonsurgical procedures performed in the United States.

People choose to undergo cosmetic surgery for a variety of reasons, including:

• Improving self-esteem. Many people feel it will give them confidence and help them feel better about themselves.
• Correcting physical deformities. Some people are born with physical abnormalities or develop them due to injury or illness.
• Achieving a more youthful appearance. As people age, their skin loses elasticity, wrinkles develop, and sagging occurs. Cosmetic surgery procedures such as facelifts, brow lifts, and eyelid lifts can help restore a more youthful appearance.
• Addressing body image issues. Many feel that their appearance does not match their gender identity or social expectations. Cosmetic surgery can help them align their physical appearance with their internal identity.
• Fitting to societal beauty standards. Society often places pressure on individuals to conform to certain beauty standards.

The positives of cosmetic surgery

Cosmetic surgery can have a positive effect on how you see yourself and how you feel about yourself, which can improve your overall quality of life.

Here are some of the positive effects of cosmetic surgery on self-image:

• Confidence. Correcting physical imperfections through cosmetic surgery can improve a person's self-esteem and confidence, leading to a more positive self-image.
• Life improvement. Improved self-image can have a ripple effect on other areas of a person's life, such as relationships, career, and overall well-being.
• Empowerment. Cosmetic surgery can also provide a sense of control and empowerment for people who have felt embarrassed or self-conscious about their appearance.
• Alleviate physical discomfort. In some cases, cosmetic surgery can alleviate physical discomfort or functional issues caused by a physical trait, such as a deviated septum or oversized breasts, leading to an improved quality of life.

The negatives of cosmetic surgery

While cosmetic surgery can have positive effects on one's self-image, it can also have some very serious negative consequences, such as:

• Unrealistic expectations. People may think that surgery will solve all of their problems or completely change how they look. If the results don't meet their expectations, they will be disappointed and unhappy.
• Risk of complications or side effects. All surgeries carry some degree of risk, including infection, bleeding, and scarring, which can lead to heightened stress and anxiety.
• Mental health. Cosmetic surgery can make mental health problems worse. It can cause "body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)" or "polysurgical addiction" by making people fixate on flaws they think they have.
• Prohibitive cost. The high cost of cosmetic surgery can lead to financial stress, debt, job loss, and strain on personal relationships.

Childhood psychological trauma

Research has shown that people who experience childhood psychological trauma, such as abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual) and school bullying, may be more likely to consider cosmetic surgery as a means of improving their self-image and self-esteem. While the link between childhood trauma and cosmetic surgery may have negative connotations, it is also possible to view the decision to undergo cosmetic surgery as having a positive outcome.

Cosmetic surgery may provide these people with an opportunity to take control of their appearance and feel more confident in themselves. People need to remember that even though cosmetic surgery might temporarily ease the emotional pain caused by childhood trauma, it is not a replacement for dealing with underlying psychological problems.

Cosmetic surgery and children

Children undergoing cosmetic surgery is a complicated and controversial topic that raises some ethical questions. Some procedures may be necessary for medical reasons, like fixing a birth defect or an injury. But there is a lot of disagreement about whether children should have cosmetic surgery for purely aesthetic reasons. One of the main concerns is that the child may not fully understand the implications and potential risks of the procedure.

Children may be more focused on the desire to fit in with their peers or meet societal beauty standards than on the long-term consequences of the surgery. Also, cosmetic surgery can have a big effect on a child's self-image and self-esteem as they grow up. It is essential to ensure that children understand that their self-worth is not solely based on their appearance and that they are valued for who they are rather than how they look. So, it is very important for parents and medical professionals to approach this issue carefully and put the child's physical and mental health ahead of how the child looks.

Coping with post-operative depression

Post-operative depression can occur after cosmetic surgery and may cause symptoms such as sadness, disappointment, regret, and anxiety. It may also lead to disillusionment and dissatisfaction with the results of the surgery. This can be made worse by unrealistic expectations or by comparing oneself to others. People who are thinking about getting cosmetic surgery should carefully weigh the risks and benefits, manage their expectations, and be aware that they may feel depressed following the surgery.

Things to consider before getting cosmetic surgery

If you are thinking of having cosmetic surgery, there are several important things to consider:

• Motivation. Consider your reasons for wanting the surgery. Is it to please someone else or to conform to societal expectations? Or is it a personal decision based on your own desires?
• Risks and complications. All surgeries come with risks, so it's important to understand the potential complications and discuss them with your surgeon.
• Recovery time. Cosmetic surgery often requires a significant amount of recovery time, during which you may need to take time off work or avoid certain activities.
• Cost. Cosmetic surgery can be expensive, and insurance may not cover it. Make sure you fully understand the costs involved and have a plan for financing the procedure.
• Realistic expectations. Have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery. Cosmetic surgery can enhance your appearance, but it won't necessarily solve all of your problems or make you a different person.
• Surgeon qualifications. Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in the specific procedure you are considering.
• Alternatives. Consider non-surgical alternatives or lifestyle changes that may achieve the same results without surgery.

While some people may choose to undergo cosmetic surgery for purely aesthetic reasons, it is important to approach this decision with caution and consideration for potential risks and benefits. Regardless of the reason for seeking cosmetic surgery, it is vital to understand the potential implications and to prioritize physical and emotional health above all else.