Have you ever wondered what kind of influence social media has on cosmetic procedure interest? A new study suggests that the social networks that you use to connect with others can play a role in your decision to get a particular type of surgery.
Body dissatisfaction predicts desire to undergo cosmetic surgery
Body dissatisfaction is a psychological concept that refers to the negative thoughts and feelings that people have about their physical appearance. This is often associated with increased desire to undergo cosmetic surgery. However, the relationship between body dissatisfaction and cosmetic surgery is complex.
The current study aimed to investigate the determinants of cosmetic surgery attitudes among middle-aged women. It used a sample of 108 women aged 35-55 years. They asked about their general attitudes towards cosmetic surgery, as well as whether they had ever considered getting cosmetic surgery.
The study investigated how body dissatisfaction and cosmetic surgery attitudes influenced by media, social motivations, and appearance investment. It also examined the role of intrapersonal factors.
The participants described their perceptions of societal beauty standards and internalized beauty ideals. Participants also emphasized the influence of the media on their opinions of their physical appearance. While the media was not a strong predictor of the number of cosmetic surgeries, it was a significant factor in influencing the level of interest in cosmetic surgery.
The researchers discovered that the amount of exposure to the media positively influences the desire to undergo cosmetic surgery. Media exposure indirectly influences cosmetic surgery attitudes through internalisation of appearance ideals.
Similarly, the level of media exposure, body dissatisfaction, and appearance investment were significant predicting the number of cosmetic surgeries. Body appreciation, self-esteem, and mindfulness were not significantly correlated with the amount of cosmetic surgery desired.
In addition, the study found that women with a low BMI were more likely to desire cosmetic procedures. Younger women were more likely to dissatisfied with their appearance.
The findings of the study suggest that further research needed to clarify the relationships between body dissatisfaction and cosmetic surgeries. Ultimately, the results may contribute to positive social change for the cosmetic surgery community.
Increased popularity and even normalization of cosmetic procedures
Cosmetic surgery has become an increasingly popular method for people to enhance their looks. In the US, liposuction, tummy tucks and rhinoplasty are the most common invasive procedures. Non-surgical procedures include:
- Soft tissue fillers
- Botox
- Dermal fillers
- Chemical peels
- Laser hair removal
Social media has been a major driving force in cosmetic surgery’s popularity. It has increased access to information, reduced costs and provided access to a wide array of cosmetics clinics. While these benefits are welcome, there are also some negative side effects to the practice.
The use of social media to promote cosmetic surgeries has questioned by some experts. Some researchers feel that the promotion of cosmetics via social media perpetuates the unrealistic body image and body standards of the past. This may be especially true for young girls. They may see altered bodies on Instagram and feel disgusted.
Another concern is the psychological impact of undergoing cosmetic surgeries. Reality shows have been popular in recent years, and while these shows are often positive, they fail to inform viewers of the risks associated with the process.
Seeing celebrities who have undergone cosmetic surgeries on a regular basis has been a factor in the popularity of these treatments. These influencers have a huge social following and many are open about their work.
Several physicians have created websites that provide educational materials to patients. These educational resources can help to align expectations between the patient and the physician. However, the popularity of these practices has led to a lack of regulation, and this could cause painful and permanent side effects.
It is not yet clear whether the popularity of cosmetics surgeries will slow down or not. While some psychologists are interested in studying the subject, more studies should done to fully understand its implications.
Reasons for low interest in cosmetic procedures
Several factors have identified among the kind of influence social media has on cosmetic procedure interest is the low interest in cosmetic procedures. These include:
- Age
- Body appreciation
- Media exposure
- Self-esteem
Despite these findings, further research needed to identify and explore the most likely reasons for these low rates.
Traditionally, studies on the cosmetic surgery industry have focused on patient samples and attitudes. While the role of media in consumer decision making has investigated, social factors have not thoroughly studied.
To better understand the causes of low interest in cosmetic procedures, the current study examines the responsibilities of the industry actors. It is an extension of three previous studies.
First, Swami et al examined the role of media consumption in shaping attitudes towards cosmetic surgery. They found a strong correlation between self-esteem and attractiveness. This result suggests that people with low self-esteem may be more willing to consider cosmetic surgery.
Second, Markey and Markey examined the influence of media, teasing, and body dissatisfaction on young women’s interest in cosmetic surgery. Their results showed that all four factors had a direct relationship to interest in cosmetic surgery.
Third, Markey and Markey also identified several societal factors relating to cosmetic surgery. Among these, societal pressure to conform to an idealized beauty standard and the greater sociocultural pressure on women to embrace their looks noted.
Fourth, participants often lamented the way that cosmetic procedures viewed in society. The study suggested that educating the public about the safety of cosmetic procedures is a good way to counter negative perceptions.
Lastly, the findings suggest that several intrinsic and extrinsic drivers contribute to an individual’s engagement in CSR. These include education, de-stigmatisation, and core responsibilities to society and clients.
