Premium Essay

Is Cosmetic Surgery Worth the Risk?

In:

Submitted By alfredfish
Words 1684
Pages 7
1) Introduction
Cosmetic surgery is a subset of plastic surgery. Also known as reconstructive surgery, plastic surgery was first performed in India around 800 BC by Sushruta, along with Charak. It was originally intended and reserved to assist wounded and deformed soldiers in war. Plastic surgery is carried out to fix a body part or facial feature that is abnormal and reconstruct it to make it appear normal.

However, in today’s society where priority is often placed on physical beauty and a youthful appearance, cosmetic surgery which is a subset of plastic surgery as mentioned above is introduced. The difference between plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery is that cosmetic surgery is not needed due to a deformity or health issue whereas plastic surgery is. Cosmetic surgery is simply a procedure taken to improve a normal body structure or body feature to make it look better through surgical and medical techniques.

Today, due to regular inventions and innovations in science and technology, the field of cosmetic surgery has become safer. However, no matter how good the technological advancements are, there is always the risk of not only the surgery resulting in unwanted outcomes but in some cases death may even occur which still make cosmetic surgery not worth the risk.

This paper deals with cosmetic surgery. It states two major reasons why healthy and normal people undergo cosmetic surgery. It also clarifies the physical risks involved such as hematoma, scarring, blood loss, drop in blood pressure, infection, numbness due to nerve damage, unexpected result and death; psychological risks; and financial risks.
2) Two major reasons why healthy and normal people undergo cosmetic surgery
There are several reasons why an individual feels the urge to use cosmetic surgery to improve his or her appearance or body feature. The two most common reasons are:

Similar Documents

Premium Essay

Paper

...Plastic Surgery is at an all-time high in today’s generation. “Over all there has been a dramatic, average increase of 26 percent in the performance of the top three procedures over the past year” (“Increasing Popularity”). Liposuction, Breast Augmentation and Eye Lid Surgery are of the top three chosen procedures for both male and female genders. Plastic surgery has been an argument for decades; society has made it a social norm, but now health risk and the biblical principles one stands on argue every point society tries to stand for. In the past, a woman’s beautiful physic depended on her bodies’ curves and her child-bearing abilities. “A woman’s body with a round, soft stomach and a full bottom that signifies reproduction was considered as beauty. Today, a thin, firm body with full breasts and a tight bottom is the ideal body” (Lee 504). Society has constructed woman’s views on their body to constantly be changing and improving and this is resulting in the constant fear of never being good enough. ”Our culture has taught women to constantly monitor their bodies as objects of imperfection and to pursue improvements because, compared to the ideal body, women’s bodies are naturally flawed” (Bordo 1993) (Lee 504). Plastic Surgery started in World War I as a result of wounded veterans, and has quickly spiraled out of control to fit the needs of our society. ”In the affluence of the postwar era, however, plastic surgery broke through the barrier of reconstructive surgery to the...

Words: 1886 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Plastic Surgery

...The Increase of Plastic Surgery Worldwide These days it seems like everybody is getting plastic surgery without hesitation. Plastic surgery was limited before to repair or correct birth defects or injuries of people. When the procedures became less invasive, the doctor’s techniques improved and the material needed for procedures cost less, society began to use plastic surgery for cosmetic purposes. Cosmetic surgery has become more accessible to a wider segment of the population worldwide and be accepted in many countries as a normal procedure. There are many people from different parts of the world that are obsessed to change their physical appearance. In the article “Mannequins Give Shape to a Venezuelan Fantasy” Meridith Kohut who writes for The New York Times, talks about a Venezuelan business man who owns a mannequin factory and he decides to reinvent the figurine’s shape in order to reflects the curvy body shape of the Venezuelan woman and increase his sales with the new mannequin created. Kohut shows on her article how obsessed Venezuelans have become for international beauty competitions and cosmetic surgery, she even points out their socialist’s government concern about the commercialism associated to those cosmetic procedures. I agree with the author that shows the increasing grow in popularity of cosmetic surgeries and treatments in Venezuela. However, there are so many countries besides Venezuela that are tangled with the same cosmetic obsession and the procedures...

Words: 1156 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Textual Analysis Experiments

...the researcher noted that many dairy cattle had their horns removed as calves. While the researcher did not know the procedure that was followed to dehorn these calves, the textual analysis did not show the procedure in a good light. During textual analysis, the researcher examined sources on topics related to cosmetic and convenience surgeries in animals. To find sources, the researcher searched relevant topics in West Virginia University’s library database. Once search results appeared, the researcher examined those sources that appeared to be the most up-to-date and thorough. The researcher also...

Words: 1596 - Pages: 7

Free Essay

Breast Implants

...Breast Implants In 1997, the United States had 101,176 people that went through surgery for breast implants and in 2000 that number more than doubled to 203,310; just in those 3 years. The first surgery that was ever performed was in the late nineteenth century; breast implant devices have been used to surgically enhance the size, adjust the shape and enrich the feel of a woman’s breasts. In 1889, the first breast implant surgery was done by Dr. Robert Gersuny, who experimented with paraffin injections, but ended with catastrophic results. In 1930, silicone, a synthetic plastic, was invented for use as a breast implant filler. In 1940’s, Japanese prostitutes had their breasts injected with substances such as paraffin, sponges and non-medical grade silicone to enlarge their breasts, believing that American men favored large breasts sizes. Silicone is a metal-like substance that’s found in nature when it is combined with oxygen which creates silica. Ordinarily beach on the sand and crystals are the real silica. For the silica to turn into silicone it will have to combined with carbon, which will form silicon. It is put though further process, which then becomes polymerized; this process combines the more complex molecules. That’s the method on how they make silicone. There are three ways in which silicone can be processed: A fluid, a gel, and a solid rubber which is known as elastomer. Silicone can even be found in regular everyday items like chewing gum, cleansers, suntan lotion...

Words: 1528 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Body Art Persuasive Essay

...Body art has been around for many centuries and over time it has developed into a way to express oneself. From tattoos to piercings, to even more extreme fashion like cosmetic surgery, body art sure has became a creative way for people to make a new identity for themselves. In my opinion, body art should not be practiced unless their culture or beliefs are the ideal reason or if they take a course in body modification just so they acknowledge the risk and complications that come with procedures so drastic and that are unnecessary if it is just for pleasure. Before you make that appointment to get your tattoo that you have been wanting so bad for the longest time, just think about the placement first of all. Where would you be receiving this...

Words: 951 - Pages: 4

Free Essay

American Popular Culture

...American Popular Culture Cynthia Casillas SOC/105 Mrs. Angela Cranon American Popular Culture There is not a single definition that will describe culture since it evolves and goes for the same as beauty. Without a doubt, there is no answer to the definition of beauty, yet beauty is heavily involved and, associated in today’s media. Media is likely to have an enormous potent effect to the average man or woman about the criteria of beauty, forcing the definition of beauty to a new height because beauty never stops evolving and tends to play a very important role in the life of young teenagers and adults. Retailer catalogs such as Abercrombie and Fitch and Victoria’s Secret tend to feature airbrushed, scantily clad and altered photos of male and female models. Beauty pageants, fashion shows, the Internet, and movies have swamped the public with two-dimensional pictures of beautiful icons and celebrities. There are even television shows that have joined the delegation, playing a role in the image that it portrays such as Skin Deep, The Swan, and Extreme Makeover. America heavily relies on mass media to play a role in molding Americas view of the definition of beauty and reshaping culture at the same time. In present-day society, with the ever-changing idea that portrays images beauty, people rely on the media to help them find the latest trends on how to look and what to wear to stay “in fashion”. According with Hume (1742), “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder”. Perhaps...

Words: 1570 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Medical Tourism

...were no restrictions on travel in Europe, people visited neighboring countries in order to improve their health. At first, mere traveling was considered to be a good therapy for mental and physical well-being. In the 21st century, relatively low-cost jet travel has taken the industry beyond the wealthy and desperate. Later, mostly wealthy people began traveling to tourist destinations like the Swiss lakes, the Alps and special tuberculosis sanatoriums, where professional and often specialized medical care was offered. In this century, however, medical tourism expanded to a much larger scale. Thailand, followed by India, Puerto-Rico, Argentina, Cuba and others quickly became the most popular destinations for medical tourists. Complicated surgeries and dental works, kidney dialysis, organ transplantation and sex changes, topped the list of the most popular procedures. It was estimated that in 2002, six hundred thousand medical tourists came to Bangkok and Phuket medical centers in Thailand, while approximately one hundred and fifty thousand foreign patients visited India during that time. From Neolithic and Bronze age wherein people used to visit neighboring countries for Minerals and Hot Springs , Today we have reached the era where Hospitals are more like Spas and Spas more like hospitals. Introduction to Medical Tourism Medical tourism is...

Words: 5696 - Pages: 23

Premium Essay

Rise of Nanotechnology

...the release. Many stages of this approach have already been proven, but the combined targeting and controlled release have yet to be accomplished. Nanotechnologists think they have an answer for the treatment of cancer with the targeted drug delivery therapies. If scientists can load their cancer-detecting nanoparticles with anticancer drugs, they could attack the cancer exactly where it lives. A treatment like this means less usage of medication and lower levels of side effects. Nanoparticles can also carry targeted and time release drugs. An effective dose of drugs could be delivered to a specific area but scheduled to release over a planned period to ensure maximum effectiveness and the patient's safety. The International Journal of Surgery tells us that: Patients will drink fluids containing nanorobots programmed...

Words: 786 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Bringing Western Culture to South Korea Via Nursing Home, Plastic Surgery, Clothing and Makeup

...Western Plaza Inc. Bringing Western Culture to South Korea via Nursing Home, Plastic Surgery, Clothing and Makeup Jacob Schwarz Executive Summary My reason for writing this study is to determine the feasibility of building a nursing/retirement home, a plastic surgery outpatient center, and a cosmetic and clothing store in Seoul, South Korea. In my opinion, South Korea is welcoming to this venture; this can be seen in the upcoming research. In this report, I explore the geography of Seoul, South Korea. I learn of the growing, large, population and the population density of 45,000 people per square mile (“Population Statistics,” 2013). Next, I review the demographics and find out that minority groups consist of 2.2% of the population (Population Statistics, 2013). While reviewing the demographics I found that the education system is extremely strict; though it is more lenient now, it is still success driven (Chakrabarti, 2013). I also found that religion is not going to be an issue with this venture, in my opinion. There are two major religions; the major Christian religion will be implemented in the venture (Koo, n.d.). Education and demographics are important to a global business venture, though I believe the economy is most important. I present information about South Korea’s economy, and how it has transformed from an aid recipient to a donor country (Globalization, n.d.). Here is where I mention the chaebol’s success, which accounted for 55.7% of South Koreas GDP in...

Words: 9631 - Pages: 39

Premium Essay

Barbie Doll Marge Piercy

...Oluwatoyin Ogunniyi Ms. Hamilton Composition I December 1st , 2011 Barbie Doll The piece of literature I chose to analyze was Barbie Dolls by Marge Piercy. This poem is about a young girl who goes through the normal stages of female bodily development. As the “girlchild” becomes a female she has an ugly nose and fat legs. She tries to be accepted by society but they deny her because of her looks. After a numerous attempts of trying to fit in she gives up. “Girlchild” has surgery and almost risks her life all to make her self pretty. In a way this is the story of your average american girl today. In the poem Barbie Dolls the author Marge Piercy is trying to show that females think that looking like a barbie doll is socially acceptable, so they alter themselves and almost kill themselves to be accepted by others. In the beginning of the poem the “girlchild” is presented with a barbie doll which to every young girl is the idealistic idea of beauty. The barbie doll had miniature stoves and irons and lipsticks. These items that she is presented with are household items that females or housewives tend to use. This sometimes molds society to believe that a woman's place is at home while the husband is being the money maker. As she gets older puberty occurs “a classmate said: you have a great big nose and fat legs”(lines 5-6) . She was “health intelligent poised , strong arm and back”(line 7). All of these characteristics are great but everywhere she went all people...

Words: 787 - Pages: 4

Free Essay

Term Paper

...Medical Tourism Introduction Medical tourism is the act of traveling to other countries to obtain medical, dental or cosmetic care. Medical tourism is a new term but thousands of years old act. People have been traveling across the continents in search of cures for any imaginable illnesses and making therapeutic trips for health wellness. In ancient Greece, pilgrims and patients came from all over the Mediterranean to the sanctuary of the healing god, Asklepios at Epidaurus, and from the 18th century wealthy Europeans have been traveling to spas from Germany to the Nile. In recent years, medical tourism is becoming more popular with patients seeking treatment for health and well-being purposes abroad. Medical Tourism is also known as Medical Travel, Health Tourism, Surgical Tourism, Health Travel, Treatment Abroad, Surgeries Abroad, and Medical Outsourcing. Medical Tourism Concerns Though many are eager to be the right pieces in the puzzle, many are still struggling to get the right fit. There are a number of concerns and risk factors for patients getting treatment much less seeking them abroad. Some concerns for patients include a consistent quality of care, lack of extensive dialog between the patient and the doctor, lack of post-op follow up, cultural differences and difficulty in obtaining sufficient insurance coverage. In order to mitigate the risk, it’s essential that the patient works with well reputed facilitators. Medical Tourism Accreditation The qualifications...

Words: 16185 - Pages: 65

Free Essay

Cells

...Stem cells: What they are and what they do Researchers believe stem cells offer great promise for new medical treatments. Learn about stem cell types, current and possible uses, ethical issues and the state of research. By Mayo Clinic staff You've heard about stem cells in the news, and perhaps you've wondered if they might help you or a loved one with a serious disease. You may wonder what stem cells are, how they're being used to treat disease and injury, and why they're the subject of such vigorous debate. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about stem cells. Why is there such an interest in stem cells? Researchers hope stem cell studies can help to: * Increase understanding of how diseases occur. By watching stem cells mature into cells that eventually become bones, heart muscle, nerve cells, and other organs and tissue, researchers and doctors may better understand how a variety of diseases and conditions develop. * Generate healthy cells to replace diseased cells (regenerative medicine). Researchers hope they can train stem cells into becoming specific cells so that those specialized cells can be used to regenerate and repair diseased or damaged tissues in people. People who might benefit from stem cell therapies include those with spinal cord injuries, type 1 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and multiple sclerosis. Stem cells could also be grown to become new...

Words: 19974 - Pages: 80

Premium Essay

Summary Of The Modern Prometheus: Changing The Perfect

...forty-three-year-old women from the United States, all results of a surgery she elected to receive: a tummy-tuck (Mozes). After her one choice, to receive plastic surgery, her life was drastically changed, and not for the better. Today’s modern obsession with plastic surgery started in the 1970s and is only progressing. These procedures have gone from being only for the rich to being commonplace for people across the world (Epstein). Originally, plastic surgery was created to improve appearance, by changing what the patient saw as imperfect and helping them feel like their best. Contemporarily, this “fixing” has generated...

Words: 1663 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

The Effects of Obesity on Healthcare

...The Effects Of Obesity On Healthcare March 24, 2013 University of Phoenix In a world where obesity is becoming an epidemic, people should be informed about prevention, and on how to boost the quality of their life. Obesity is increasing at alarming rates and affects over two-thirds of the American population. While media and entertainment are obsessed with thinness, we should be more concerned with the larger problem of obesity. There are great risks involved in being obese. Obesity is taking it’s toll on many people. It is about time somebody stepped up and proved to these suffering humans that there is help available, and there are people who care and are willing to help with this problem. Obesity currently affects over two – thirds of the population. (www.acsh.org ) Americans are paying less attention to what they are eating, and paying more attention to the costs of foods. Obesity rates have been steadily increasing over the past twenty five years. This is partly due to the rising costs of eating healthy. ( www.acsh.org) “Families get fatter as they buy cheaper and less healthy foods in order to try to fill up”. (Emily Openchowski, May 21, 2012) Obesity has been known to shorten life spans by six to seven years depending upon it's severity. ( www.acsh.org/publications/obesity-and-its-health-effects)...

Words: 1517 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Stereotypes Of Anorexia Nervosa

...Body-image has been affecting people for centuries, people have always had a certain stereotype the world chooses to appear like. There is a substantial amount of people that develop eating disorders or depression. Teens in this era are at a great risk to the exposure of self-harm and judging themselves all because of the current stereotypes for men and women. Everyone at some point in their lifetime have dealt with body-image issues, some more severe than others. Many people have died from severe cases of disorders like anorexia or mental disorders because they were so obsessed with their bodies or faces being perfect. Many people commonly binge eat then do strenuous exercise to work off all the weight they just gained, but that makes people...

Words: 1682 - Pages: 7