Table of ContentsIntroductionThe Psychological ImpactMedical and Health ConsiderationsSocietal ImplicationsConclusionIntroductionCosmetic surgery, once a privilege reserved for the rich and famous, has permeated mainstream society, becoming an important aspect of contemporary life. The proliferation of social media and the pervasive influence of celebrity culture have contributed to this phenomenon. This essay seeks to explore the multifaceted arguments surrounding cosmetic surgery, weighing the psychological, medical and societal implications of this booming industry. While its supporters say cosmetic surgery can improve self-esteem and quality of life, its opponents say it perpetuates unrealistic beauty standards and can cause serious health risks. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The Psychological Impact Proponents of cosmetic surgery frequently point to its potential to boost self-esteem and improve mental well-being. Studies suggest that people who undergo cosmetic procedures often experience significant improvements in their body image and self-confidence. According to a study published in the journal Clinical Psychological Science, patients reported a reduction in their levels of anxiety and depression after cosmetic surgery, as well as an overall improvement in their quality of life (von Soest et al., 2011 ). This suggests that, for some, cosmetic surgery may be a valuable tool for treating psychological distress related to body image issues. However, the psychological benefits of cosmetic surgery are not universally felt. Critics say the pursuit of physical perfection can become an obsession, leading to psychological disorders such as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). The American Psychiatric Association notes that people with BDD may undergo multiple surgeries and still remain dissatisfied with their appearance, perpetuating a vicious cycle of surgical procedures (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). This indicates that while cosmetic surgery may offer temporary relief, it is not a panacea for deeper psychological problems. Medical and health considerations From a medical point of view, cosmetic surgery is not without risks. Complications can occur during any surgical procedure, ranging from minor infections to serious conditions that can be life-threatening. A comprehensive review published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery highlights that although the majority of cosmetic procedures are safe, complications can occur in 1-5% of cases (Rohrich et al., 2008). These complications can include hematomas, nerve damage and even pulmonary embolisms, highlighting the inherent risks. Additionally, the lack of strict regulations in some countries exacerbates these risks. Medical tourism, where individuals travel abroad to undergo less expensive procedures, often results in substandard care. The International Society for Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) warns that lower costs may come at the expense of safety and quality, as some facilities may not adhere to rigorous medical standards (ISAPS, 2019). This further highlights the need for potential patients to conduct thorough research and consider the qualifications of their chosen practitioners. Societal implications The societal implications of surgery.,, 1(2), 36-51.