Pressure to perfection: City girls' obsession for beauty at what cost?

According to a survey, the number of girls aged 16 to 23 undergoing cosmetic surgery in Bengaluru has increased by 20%

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: The pressure to look good and beautiful is catching up among young girls and women in Bengaluru. According to a 2022 survey by the Indian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ISAPS), the number of girls aged 16 to 23 who have undergone cosmetic surgery in the IT City has increased by 20% in the past year.

And not surprisingly, the most common procedures performed by this age group are rhinoplasty (nose job), eyelid surgery, breast augmentation and so on. There are a number of reasons why girls are choosing cosmetic surgery. Some are unhappy with their appearance and feel that cosmetic surgery will help them look more attractive.

Others are seeking to improve their selfconfidence or achieve a more youthful appearance. There are many who are pressured by their peers or by society to conform to a certain beauty ideal. Dr Sheetal Lakhani, a PhD Scholar in Clinical Psychology at NIMHANS, provides insights into the concept of body image as a personal relationship with our bodies, which can be influenced by social norms and peer pressure.

This influence often leads to body dissatisfaction. In the case of teenagers, who are particularly sensitive to opinions and experience significant bodily changes due to puberty and hormonal fluctuations, they are more susceptible to being influenced by societal standards. Dr Lakhani highlights an interesting example from New South Wales, where a three-month cooling-off period is required before undergoing cosmetic surgery.

This policy serves as a safeguard to ensure individuals have ample time to reflect on their decision and consider the potential long-term effects of altering their appearance. By recognising the complex interplay between personal experiences, social influences, and the need for thoughtful consideration, Dr Lakhani emphasises the importance of promoting a healthy body image and encouraging individuals, especially teenagers, to embrace their bodies in a positive and accepting way.

This approach can help mitigate the harmful impact of societal pressures and enhance overall well-being. There are a number of reasons why the number of girls opting for cosmetic surgery in Bengaluru has increased. Some may be doing it to improve their mental outlook and confidence and for them Dr Sheetal recommends medical professional help if they are struggling with body image issues or other mental health concerns, since cosmetic surgery is not the way to deal with mental health issues.

There are other reasons such as body dissatisfaction, self-esteem issues, trauma such as bullying and abuse, and so on. Whatever the reason, it is important to note that cosmetic surgery is a major decision that should not be taken lightly. There are risks such as infection, scarring, uneven results and so on associated with any plastic surgery, and it is important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully before making a decision.

Change the conversation

Dr Sheetal Lakhani suggests shifting societal perceptions of the "perfect body," addressing social stigma, practising positive self-talk, ignoring negative comments, and emphasising on inner beauty. These solutions aim to foster a healthier body image culture that promotes self-acceptance, self-love, and appreciation for diverse beauty.