A New Era of Positivity: A Call to End Plastic Surgery Shaming

Plastic surgery has become a common practice, with over 2.3 million Americans undergoing various cosmetic procedures yearly. And yet, a level of shame and stigma remains, especially towards women. From Madonna and Nicki Minaj to Pamela Anderson and Megan Fox, some people continue to criticize those who choose to enhance or change their appearance through surgery and non-invasive techniques. The question is — why?

Some may agree that it’s because society has long placed a premium on physical appearance, perpetuating the idea that women must be “naturally” flawless and beautiful 24/7. This pressure can lead to a culture of shaming and judging those who undergo plastic surgery in Scottsdale, as if, somehow, these women are “cheating” or “taking shortcuts” to achieve (and maintain) an unattainable ideal.

Why Do We Shame Women Who Get Plastic Surgery?

The truth is, women choose plastic surgery for many different reasons, and it’s time we stopped dragging them down for their choices. Let’s dive into the real, unfiltered reasons why people shame plastic surgery patients.

1. Societal Pressure

Immense societal pressure to conform to beauty standards is one of the reasons people judge those who get breast implants, fillers, and any procedure done. Throughout history, women have always had a higher standard of beauty than men, as society and different cultures expect them to look a certain way to be attractive. For example, the Healthy Journal revealed that being fair-skinned, blue-eyed, thin, and young has long been the American standard of beauty. These standards can make anyone — including older women with those features — feel insecure about their appearance and seek out plastic surgery.

Once women choose plastic surgery, then comes more criticism and judgment. Although many of us are considerate and humanity has come a long way, plastic surgery remains controversial and “taboo,” even among the progressive youth. A pervasive belief that women who get plastic surgery are “vain” or “shallow” persists through generations, implying that these women are “betraying” or “deceiving” others by altering their appearance.

2. Unaddressed Misconceptions

Several women face shame and ridicule for having plastic surgery due to false information and misguidance. For instance, while cosmetic procedures can enhance appearances, millions are unaware of the underlying health benefits. Breast reduction surgery is a leading example, which can bring both physical and emotional relief. Eliminating chronic pain in the upper body allows women to participate in physical activities that were once too uncomfortable or painful to engage in with large breasts, all while fostering a more positive self-image.

In addition, a common misconception is that plastic surgery is exclusive to the ultra-rich and privileged, further perpetuating the stigma surrounding plastic surgery. This presumption could not be further from the truth. Both surgical and non-invasive cosmetic procedures have become less costly in recent years, as more doctors offer financing plans.

3. Judgmental Nature

A significant factor contributing to plastic surgery shaming is society’s overcritical attitude toward women. Though more women are supporting fellow women, many continue to side with misogynistic men, scrutinizing and judging other women based on appearances and tying their worth to how they look.

Try browsing through the social media pages of women who have undergone plastic surgery or are assumed to have gotten work done. Bella Hadid, Khloe Kardashian, Kylie Jenner, and Courteney Cox are only some of the many daily recipients of hateful comments like “fake” or “none of us are ugly; we are just poor.”

4. Fear of the Unknown

A lack of knowledge and understanding of cosmetic surgery can stir feelings of fear and mistrust, with some people seeing it as a dangerous and unnecessary risk. Unfortunately, fear and ignorance can also lead to the equally dangerous and unnecessary shaming of women who undergo plastic surgery.

5. Misogyny and Sexism

Addressing the elephant in the room, it’s important to acknowledge that plastic surgery shaming can stem from misogyny and sexism. As mentioned earlier, women are usually held to a higher standard of beauty than men, with many considering a woman’s appearance as her only defining characteristic.

The societal expectations of women’s beauty and femininity can lead to a sense of entitlement and ownership over women’s bodies, with some men believing that no woman should have the right to alter their appearance, or that resorting to plastic surgery is an act of deceit towards potential suitors.

Plastic Surgery Shaming Toward Men

Men who undergo cosmetic procedures are also subject to shaming and criticism. Society often values traditional masculine qualities, such as strength and toughness, and many view plastic surgery as a threat to these ideals. Men who get plastic surgery may be perceived as vain or weak, with their masculinity called into question. Others may also judge them for deviating from traditional gender norms, as society tends to view cosmetic procedures as something more commonly associated with women.

However, it’s important to recognize that men have their reasons for undergoing plastic surgery. Like women, they may want to enhance their appearance, boost their confidence, or correct physical “imperfections.” In fact, the number of men seeking plastic surgery has steadily increased over the years, as more men become comfortable with cosmetic procedures.

Why Plastic Surgery Shaming Needs to Stop

Shaming those who choose cosmetic surgery is a harmful practice that must end. It perpetuates negative stereotypes, reinforces harmful beauty standards, and undermines individual autonomy.

Whether it’s shaming women or men, here’s why we should stop looking down on those who are brave enough to choose this journey:

1. Respect People’s Personal Choices

People who go under the knife have likely pushed forward after careful consideration. We should not judge and criticize them for doing what they believe is best for themselves.

2. Improves Self-Esteem and Confidence

Men and women who undergo plastic surgery do so to address concerns about their physical appearance that may have been causing significant distress for years. For example, a woman may choose to get breast implants after a mastectomy or to correct breast asymmetry, while a man may choose to undergo breast reduction surgery to address gynecomastia. In these cases, plastic surgery can be a life-changing and empowering choice that can help people feel more confident and self-assured.

3. Plastic Surgery Can Have Health Benefits

In addition to improving self-esteem and confidence, certain plastic surgery procedures can have significant health benefits. As mentioned earlier, breast reduction surgery, for instance, can help alleviate pain in the back, neck, and shoulders. At the same time, rhinoplasty can improve breathing and sinus issues. We should celebrate these health benefits, as they can improve people’s quality of life and overall well-being.

Breaking the Stigma: Let’s End Plastic Surgery Shaming

By reducing the shame and stigma associated with plastic surgery and supporting others in their choice to do what is best for themselves and their bodies, we can create a more accepting and inclusive society that values diversity and individual choices.

If you are considering plastic surgery in Scottsdale, AZ, remember that natural-looking results are possible. By choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon and being clear about your goals and expectations, you can achieve a look that is both beautiful and authentic. Contact us to schedule your consultation with Dr. Guerra and Dr. Ogley.