Cosmetic Surgery
Should cosmetic surgery be encouraged to the general public?
Cosmetic surgery is defined as “any medical operation which is intended to improve a person’s appearance rather than their health” (Cambridge Dictionary, 2003, p.275). By definition, cosmetic surgery is a common practice used to modify the physical outlook of people, especially for women. This is definitely a luxury, which is not necessary to the public. Starting from the 20th century, however, cosmetic surgery is no longer a luxury but a necessity to the affluent. Based on a survey carried out by Lloyd and Gordon (2004), the number of people received cosmetic surgery had increased for more than 40% between 1992 and 2002. A growth in affluence of the general public’s demand towards the surgery leads to another issue – abnormal behavior and belief of people, which can impose far-reaching side effects to the whole society. It is obvious that the prevalence of cosmetic surgery can evoke severe social problems. The essay examines the reasons why cosmetic surgery should not be promoted to the general public.
One major view concerning the increasing demand for cosmetic surgery in the 20th century is the misinterpretation of the standard towards beauty. According to Abraham and Zuckerman (2011), the mass media such as television shows, advertisements, magazines played an evident role in changing the public perception of “ideal “beauty standards. Due to the quick access to information, the general public can easily learn about some new ideas relating to modifying physical appearance through cosmetic surgery and the new indicators or standards to beauty. The definition in beauty can be easily altered. With the assistance of mass media, these concepts will soon hold a special place for many people, especially women. In pursuit of attractive appearance, people can spare no effort to achieve their goals. They will then try to meet the new standard by going on diet, doing exercise, or even receiving
Cosmetic surgery is defined as “any medical operation which is intended to improve a person’s appearance rather than their health” (Cambridge Dictionary, 2003, p.275). By definition, cosmetic surgery is a common practice used to modify the physical outlook of people, especially for women. This is definitely a luxury, which is not necessary to the public. Starting from the 20th century, however, cosmetic surgery is no longer a luxury but a necessity to the affluent. Based on a survey carried out by Lloyd and Gordon (2004), the number of people received cosmetic surgery had increased for more than 40% between 1992 and 2002. A growth in affluence of the general public’s demand towards the surgery leads to another issue – abnormal behavior and belief of people, which can impose far-reaching side effects to the whole society. It is obvious that the prevalence of cosmetic surgery can evoke severe social problems. The essay examines the reasons why cosmetic surgery should not be promoted to the general public.
One major view concerning the increasing demand for cosmetic surgery in the 20th century is the misinterpretation of the standard towards beauty. According to Abraham and Zuckerman (2011), the mass media such as television shows, advertisements, magazines played an evident role in changing the public perception of “ideal “beauty standards. Due to the quick access to information, the general public can easily learn about some new ideas relating to modifying physical appearance through cosmetic surgery and the new indicators or standards to beauty. The definition in beauty can be easily altered. With the assistance of mass media, these concepts will soon hold a special place for many people, especially women. In pursuit of attractive appearance, people can spare no effort to achieve their goals. They will then try to meet the new standard by going on diet, doing exercise, or even receiving
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