They say it “hurts enough”, but the psychological effects of cosmetic enhancements are a lot of pain … [+]
From Kate Moss’ ‘Heroin Chic’ to the Kardashian’s ‘fat’ body standard, women’s beauty standards are an ever-turning wheel. For every new ideal body model paraded in the media, there are millions who don’t fit the bill — and that’s no accident.
To solve this problem, more and more people are turning to cosmetic surgery — nose jobs, breast augmentations, and the like. These procedures allow individuals to improve their appearance and boost self-confidence. For many, it seems like the perfect solution to long-term body insecurities.
However, physical transformations can also markedly change people’s lives, leading to potentially devastating mental health consequences. Getting invasive cosmetic procedures is always a gamble, not only for your appearance but also for your mind. While you can arm yourself with information and medical precautions, there’s no sure way to predict whether “enhancing” your appearance will go as expected, both physically and mentally.
Plastic surgery as a steroid for your self-esteem
On the popular reality TV show Keeping up with the Kardashiansa teenage Kylie Jenner admitted in 2015 that she got a lip augmentation to help with her insecurities. Many young people seemed to relate to her admission, as of 2019 study Google’s trend tracker showed that interest in lip augmentation increased by 43% after the episode aired.
Like Kylie, thousands have tried to address their insecurities related to physical appearance through surgery. These procedures can significantly boost self-esteem and social confidence if all goes according to plan. A 2024 study of the rhinoplasty procedure highlights the positive impact of plastic surgery on “self-esteem, body image, depression and anxiety.”
The report also showed improvement in deeper psychological issues in patients who had undergone the procedure. For people struggling with body deformity and anxiety, plastic surgery can provide relief and a sense of control over their appearance.
With advances in medical technology and sophisticated surgical planning, one can truly realize their dream of changing or “fixing” their appearance in the modern age. But is a successful plastic surgery all it takes to get rid of body image problems for good?
The dangers of plastic surgery addiction
The issue with plastic surgery is not only the medical risks involved in the procedure, but also the oppressive nature of the beauty standards that keep the industry thriving. When celebrities like the Kardashians talk about lip or breast augmentation and how it temporarily benefited them, the buck is passed on to other celebrities. This may explain why modern procedures such as ‘BBLs’ and liposuction are now commonplace.
Trying to morph your body to fit a certain image is often motivated by the unrealistic expectation of looking like your favorite movie stars. A 2024 Journal of Media Psychology study emphasizes managing expectations and recognizing the difference between Hollywood’s curated perfection and real-life results.
Cosmetic procedures can be effective but one cannot expect miracles in the operating room. Celebrities are equipped with resources such as dedicated makeup artists, nutritionists, journalists and stylists to create the perfect image we are inundated with every day. One must understand that the image is not real, no matter how much the beauty industry wants us to believe it is.
The problem becomes infinitely more complicated when individuals do not achieve the desired results, leading them to pursue additional plastic procedures to achieve their ideal appearance. In 2022, The American Society of Plastic Surgeons was mentioned a steady increase in cosmetic procedures, raising concerns about possible reliance on cosmetic alterations. This trend underscores the importance of thorough psychological evaluations by physicians before recommending multiple or repeat procedures.
Practical advice to minimize the negative consequences
Cosmetic surgery, if used correctly, can have a positive impact on people’s lives. To minimize the psychological risks associated with surgery, various measures can be implemented, such as:
- Setting realistic expectations. Set achievable goals for your results. Perfection is not attainable and each person’s journey is unique. Expecting to look like a completely different person can lead to a cycle of prosthetic changes, with your mental health as collateral.
- Open communication. Maintain transparent communication with your plastic surgeon and with your loved ones. Discuss your motivations, concerns and mental well-being before, during and after the procedure.
- Professional support. If you are experiencing post-op discomfort, seek professional help.
- Media literacy. Develop critical thinking skills when consuming media content about beauty standards and plastic surgery outcomes. Realize that “perfect looks” are just an illusion.
The relationship between plastic surgery and mental health is not only positive or negative. it varies from person to person. The role of the plastic surgeon extends beyond the operating room. By recognizing the potential pitfalls and encouraging responsible decision-making, plastic surgery can become a tool of empowerment rather than a source of insecurity or resentment.
Do you think you might have deep insecurities about your physical appearance? Take this quiz to learn more: Body Image Questionnaire
