The Rise of Cosmetic Surgery in the Social Media Era
Briefly

A recent surge in cosmetic procedures among young adults could be attributed to social media's unrealistic beauty standards. Statistics show a significant increase in dissatisfaction with body image among men and women, correlating with a 40% rise in aesthetic procedures in Canada since 2019. Research indicates that platforms like Instagram foster unhealthy comparisons and desires for cosmetic enhancements, especially following high-profile celebrity endorsements. Collaboration among clinicians, policymakers, and social media platforms is essential to mitigate this trend and promote body positivity among youth.
Recent experimental studies have found that 70% of young adult women and 60% of young adult men report being unhappy with their bodies.
The rise in cosmetic procedures coincides with increased social media use, as idealized images create dissatisfaction and drive plastic surgery desires.
A systematic review analyzed studies involving nearly 14,000 participants, revealing a significant influence of social media on the decision to undergo cosmetic procedures.
Celebrity endorsements, as seen with Kylie Jenner, combined with targeted ads on platforms, significantly contribute to rising interest in aesthetic surgeries.
Read at Psychology Today
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