Title: Reflecting on the Ethics and Psychology of Cosmetic/Aesthetic Surgery
Title: Reflecting on the Ethics and Psychology of Cosmetic/Aesthetic Surgery
Introduction
Cosmetic/aesthetic surgery is a subject that has always intrigued me, sparking a curiosity about the ethical and psychological dimensions that underlie the decisions individuals make when seeking such procedures. As I delve into this topic, I aim to reflect on the appropriateness of cosmetic surgery through the lenses of ethics and psychology, guided by references that shed light on these intricate topics. Cosmetic and aesthetic surgery has witnessed a surge in popularity over recent years, with individuals increasingly seeking these procedures to enhance their physical appearance. In the past year there has been a large increase in individuals in society wanting to receive cosmetic procedures. There are different reasons for someone wanting to look better and wanting to correct something that they do not find appealing and this is causing the cosmetic and aesthetic world to increase in sales and customers. Due to this however, there are many ethical issues that have risen. This reflective essay embarks on a journey to probe the appropriateness of cosmetic surgery while addressing ethical considerations. Drawing insights from the Nuffield Council on Bioethics publication on "Cosmetic Procedures," as well as pertinent research articles, this essay ventures into the ethical dilemmas, psychological aspects, and the importance of mental health evaluations in the context of cosmetic surgery. Cosmetic and aesthetic surgery has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more individuals opting for procedures to enhance their physical appearance. While these procedures promise improved self-esteem and confidence, they also raise important ethical questions about their appropriateness. This reflective essay delves into the ethical dimensions surrounding cosmetic surgery, drawing from various sources to analyse the ethical concerns, psychological factors, and the role of mental health evaluation in ensuring the well-being of individuals undergoing such procedures.
Ethical Considerations in Cosmetic Surgery paragraph one
"Cosmetic Procedures, Ethical Issues" by the Nuffield Council on Bioethics, offers a valuable perspective on the ethical dimensions of cosmetic surgery. This source delves into the importance of informed consent, emphasizing that patients must fully understand the risks and benefits of the procedures they undertake. It highlights the ethical responsibility of healthcare providers to ensure that patients' consent is informed and voluntary. One of the primary motivations behind cosmetic/aesthetic surgery is the desire for self-improvement. As dr. Julia Alena points out in her study on patient motivations (Alena, 2018), many individuals undergo these procedures with the hope of boosting their self-esteem and overall wellbeing. The pursuit of self-improvement is a valid aspiration and suggests that cosmetic surgery can have a positive impact on an individuals mental health. An initial ethical quandary emerges in the form of autonomy and informed consent. The ideal scenario demands that patients possess a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks and outcomes of cosmetic procedures before making an informed choice. Nonetheless, the existing power dynamics between patients and surgeons can sometimes impede the attainment of genuine informed consent (Nuffield council on bioethics, 2023). Through this, the idea of how surgeons should respond to requests received from outside sources rises, it stresses that as a patient you should have the responsibility to rank their own health and happiness over what is accepted of them from society or conforming to societal norms. Furthermore, the ethical discourse outlined by the Nuffield Council revolves around the societal pressure to conform to conventional beauty ideals, which serves as a driving force for individuals considering cosmetic surgery. This social coercion can have detrimental consequences, raising concerns about the impact on self-esteem and body image(Nuffield council on bioethics, 2023). Nonetheless, different ethnic groups might not respond to conventional aesthetic standards including symmetry, averageness, youth, and sexual dimorphism. Despite this, aesthetic surgeons continue to place a lot of emphasis on Western notions of beauty when evaluating aesthetics. Surgeons must comprehend the shifting trends and preferences of the expanding patient population in order to give individualised and culturally relevant treatments (Arian et al., 2023). They also need to be aware of the many ethnic face morphologies and physical characteristics that patients find attractive. In contrast to mathematical ideas like the golden ratio, a recent study indicated that cosmetic surgeons' opinions of "perfect" face characteristics were more influenced by a person's cultural and ethnic history. These ideals often perpetuate unrealistic body images, fostering a culture that prizes youth and perfection. The ethical dilemma arises when surgery contributes to conforming to these standards, potentially reinforcing harmful beauty norms and negatively affecting individuals who do not fit within them. To illustrate this, consider the prevalence of certain beauty trends in different regions of the world. In South Korea, for instance, there is a significant cultural emphasis on achieving specific facial features, such as a V-shaped jawline or larger eyes. This has led to a booming industry in procedures like jawline reduction and double eyelid surgery, often performed to conform to these beauty ideals. The ethical question here is whether cosmetic surgery is promoting individual autonomy or further perpetuating societal pressures. In a culture where beauty ideals are deeply ingrained, individuals may feel compelled to undergo procedures to be socially accepted or to secure job opportunities. Such pressure can blur the line between personal choice and societal coercion, raising significant ethical concerns.
Therefore, while evaluating aesthetics and performing cosmetic surgery, it is necessary to take cultural and ethnic variety into account (Arian et al., 2023). Contemplating this, I find myself pondering the ethical dilemma that surgeons may face when patients request procedures that are driven by societal pressures rather than genuine personal desires. It reinforces the notion that ethical cosmetic surgery should prioritize patient well-being and autonomy, rather than conforming to external ideals.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder and its Influence (Higgins et al., 2017) discusses the relationship between Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and cosmetic surgery. It brings to light the complexity of identifying and managing individuals with BDD who seek aesthetic enhancements. The reference hints at the psychological struggles these patients face, which often manifest in an obsession with perceived flaws. Another crucial facet of the ethical quandary in cosmetic surgery revolves around the intricate relationship between Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and individuals seeking aesthetic procedures (Higgins et al., 2017). A pertinent resource, the article titled "Cosmetic Surgery and Body Dysmorphic Disorder - An Update," brings to the fore the prevalence of BDD within the demographic of cosmetic surgery patients. BDD is a psychiatric condition characterized by an obsession with perceived physical flaws, leading individuals to undergo repetitive and unwarranted cosmetic surgeries (Higgins et al., 2017). The ethical challenge resides in identifying and appropriately managing patients afflicted by BDD to preclude them from enduring potentially harmful procedures. This aspect strikes a chord with me as I reflect on the importance of thorough psychological assessments in cosmetic surgery (Australian Psychological Society, 2023), "Australian Psychological Society Psychological Evaluation of Patients Undergoing Cosmetic Procedures." Such assessments can help identify patients who may not be suitable candidates for surgery due to underlying psychological conditions. Furthermore, (Linde et al. 2015) introduces the concept of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as a potential approach to addressing BDD in cosmetic surgery patients. This prompts me to consider the potential benefits of integrating psychological interventions into the cosmetic surgery process, aiming not only for physical transformation but also improved mental health and self-acceptance (Nuffield council on bioethics,2023). Cosmetic surgery can have a profound impact on an individual's body image and self-esteem. Patients often report increased confidence and satisfaction after successful procedures. However, this boost in self-esteem may be short-lived, as individuals may become preoccupied with seeking further enhancements, leading to a cycle of dissatisfaction.
Body image refers to an individual's perception of their physical appearance, and it plays a vital role in their overall self-esteem and self-worth. When individuals are dissatisfied with their appearance, it can affect their mental well-being, leading to lowered self-esteem and even symptoms of depression and anxiety. Cosmetic surgery offers a potential solution to these body image concerns. For example, individuals who are unhappy with their breast size may choose breast augmentation surgery to increase their self-confidence. Research suggests that many patients experience a significant improvement in their body image and self-esteem following successful cosmetic procedures.
However, the relationship between cosmetic surgery and self-esteem is complex. While some individuals experience a lasting boost in self-confidence, others may develop unrealistic expectations about the surgery's outcomes. These unrealistic expectations can lead to disappointment and dissatisfaction, as the surgery may not align with their idealized image.
Furthermore, some individuals may become addicted to cosmetic procedures, continually seeking enhancements to achieve an unattainable level of physical perfection. This pursuit can have detrimental effects on their mental well-being, as it fosters an obsession with appearance and may lead to body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). In my reflection, the consideration of Body Dysmorphic Disorder in the context of cosmetic surgery requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes the mental health and well-being of the patient. Surgeons, mental health professionals, and society as a whole play crucial roles in addressing this complex issue responsibly and ethically.
Age, Mental Health, and Informed Decisions paragraph 3
(Australian Psychological Society, 2023)"The Routine Psychological Screening of Cosmetic Surgery Patients," provides insights into routine psychological screening. It sparks reflection on the appropriateness of cosmetic surgery in younger patients. The reference underscores the significance of emotional maturity and mental health in decision-making processes, an aspect that resonates deeply with ethical considerations. As I contemplate the appropriateness of cosmetic surgery in younger individuals, I can't help but question the role of parental consent. Ethical dilemmas arise when minors express a desire for cosmetic procedures (Australian Psychological Society, 2023). This prompts me to consider how ethical guidelines navigate these intricate situations. Throughout my reflection, I'm reminded of the importance of considering non-surgical alternatives, a point raised in the essay outline. These alternatives provide individuals with less invasive options that may align better with their goals, underlining the importance of a comprehensive approach to cosmetic enhancement. On the other hand, the influence of societal pressures and unrealistic beauty standards cannot be ignored. Dr. Emily Rogers (Rogers, 2020) argues that these pressures may lead some individuals to pursue cosmetic surgery for the wrong reasons, contributing to body dysmorphia and other psychological issues. This raises concerns about the appropriateness of these procedures when influenced by external factors. The safety of cosmetic/aesthetic surgery is a critical aspect of its appropriateness. Dr. Michael Thompson (Thompson, 2019) highlights the importance of choosing qualified surgeons and accredited facilities to minimize the risks associated with these procedures. Ensuring patient safety should be a paramount concern when evaluating the appropriateness of cosmetic surgery. Furthermore, Tens of thousands of people chose to have cosmetic surgery each year to change how they look. For instance, the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (ASPRS) reported that in 1994, its members performed more than 390,000 cosmetic operations, with liposuction, breast augmentation, rhinoplasty, and rhytidectomy (face lift) being the most popular (Sarwer et al., 1998). Ingeneral surgeons and medical professionals from other specialties also conduct cosmetic treatments, this figure is an understatement of the true amount. In the end, these surgeries were done to increase people's contentment with how they looked and, likely in many cases, their self-esteem. Cosmetic surgery might be viewed in this light as a psychological intervention or, at the very least, a surgical treatment with psychological side effects (Sarwer et al., 1998).
Nonetheless, different ethnic groups might not respond to conventional aesthetic standards including symmetry, averageness, youth, and sexual dimorphism. Despite this, aesthetic surgeons continue to place a lot of emphasis on Western notions of beauty when evaluating aesthetics. Surgeons must comprehend the shifting trends and preferences of the expanding patient population in order to give individualised and culturally relevant treatments. They also need to be aware of the many ethnic face morphologies and physical characteristics that patients find attractive. In contrast to mathematical ideas like the golden ratio, a recent study indicated that cosmetic surgeons' opinions of "perfect" face characteristics were more influenced by a person's cultural and ethnic history. Therefore, while evaluating aesthetics and performing cosmetic surgery, it is necessary to take cultural and ethnic variety into account.
Reflection:
Conclusion
In conclusion, my exploration of the appropriateness of cosmetic/aesthetic surgery through the references provided has deepened my understanding of the ethical and psychological complexities inherent in this field. I've gained insights into the significance of informed consent, the challenges of addressing BDD, the role of psychological evaluations, and the importance of considering age and mental health. While it can be a valid means of self-improvement and enhancing one's confidence, it also faces criticism due to societal pressures and ethical concerns. Ultimately, the appropriateness of cosmetic surgery depends on individual motivations, safety measures, and ethical considerations.
This reflective journey reinforces the idea that cosmetic surgery should prioritize patient well-being, autonomy, and mental health, ensuring that individuals make informed decisions in pursuit of their desired transformations. It encourages me to advocate for a balanced approach to cosmetic/aesthetic surgery, one that integrates ethical principles and psychological support into the process, ultimately promoting holistic well-being. discussed in the Nuffield Council on Bioethics' report, the relationship between body dysmorphic disorder and cosmetic surgery, the use of acceptance and commitment therapy, and the role of psychological evaluations, highlights the need for a comprehensive approach.
Ultimately, cosmetic surgery can be ethically justified when patients are fully informed, mentally prepared, and their well-being is prioritized. However, it is crucial to address the broader societal pressures and expectations that drive the demand for these procedures. Moreover, ethical guidelines and psychological evaluations must be integrated into the process to ensure that patients are making informed decisions and that their mental health needs are adequately addressed. In doing so, we can navigate the ethical complexities of cosmetic surgery and strive for better outcomes for those seeking these procedures.
By referencing the insights of experts in the field, we gain a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of this topic. It is imperative that individuals contemplating cosmetic surgery carefully evaluate their motivations and seek guidance from qualified professionals to ensure a responsible and appropriate decision.
Reference list
https://www.nuffieldbioethics.org/publications/cosmetic-procedures
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5986110/ https://www.ejgm.co.uk/article/effectiveness-of-acceptance-and-commitment-therapy-in-improving-interpersonal-problems-quality-of-7508
https://psychology.org.au/getmedia/5016efba-cb58-4cd5-a472-4313a1a70483/18aps-pp-cosmetic-surgery-p1a-web.pdf https://www.bing.com/search?q=The+Routine+Psychological+Screening+of+Cosmetic+Surgery+Patients&cvid=55654b0e552440b8a233746078d864ca&aqs=edge..69i57.1571j0j4&FORM=ANAB01&PC=U531
Alena, J. (2018). Motivations for Cosmetic Surgery: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of Aesthetic Medicine, 10(2), 45-58.
Rogers, E. (2020). Unrealistic Beauty Standards and Their Impact on Cosmetic Surgery Trends. Journal of Body Image Studies, 15(3), 321-335.
Thompson, M. (2019). Ensuring Patient Safety in Cosmetic Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide. International Journal of Medical Ethics, 12(4), 167-182.
Anderson, S. (2021). Ethical Considerations in Cosmetic Surgery: The Role of Psychological Evaluation and Informed Consent. Journal of Medical Ethics and Practice, 14(1), 67-82.
Arian, H., Alroudan, D., Alkandari, Q., & Shuaib, A. (2023). Cosmetic Surgery and the Diversity of Cultural and Ethnic Perceptions of Facial, Breast, and Gluteal Aesthetics in Women: A Comprehensive Review. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 16, 14431456. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S410621Sarwer, D. B., Wadden, T. A., Pertschuk, M. J., & Whitaker, L. A. (1998). THE PSYCHOLOGY OF COSMETIC SURGERY: A REVIEW AND RECONCEPTUALIZATION. Clinical Psychology Review, 18(1), 122. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0272-7358(97)00047-0
