The beauty industry has always set unrealistic beauty standards that most people find impossible to meet. With the rise of social media, these standards have become even more unattainable for adolescents.

As a result, there has been a notable increase in adolescent aesthetic surgery.

What are unrealistic beauty standards?

The concept of beauty is subjective, but the beauty industry has constructed a narrow definition of beauty that is unrealistic and unattainable for most people.

Standards of beauty include having flawless skin, a symmetrical face, a slim body with big bust and butt and a particular nose shape. Most people cannot meet these standards without the help of filters, makeup, and aesthetic surgeries.

The pressure to meet these standards can cause low self-esteem, body dysmorphia, and mental health issues, especially for adolescents who are still developing their sense of identity.

Social media has drastically changed the way people consume and perceive beauty. Adolescents spend a considerable amount of time on social media, where they come across edited and filtered images that set unattainable beauty standards.

They compare themselves to these images and start believing that they need to look a certain way to be accepted and liked by others. Social media influencers and celebrities have also contributed to the problem by promoting a particular look, which reinforces unrealistic beauty standards.

Adolescent Aesthetic Surgery: What is it and Why is it popular

Adolescent aesthetic surgery is a form of plastic surgery that targets teens between the age of 13 to 19. These surgeries are elective and aim to enhance a person’s physical appearance.

The most common procedures for adolescents are rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, liposuction, and facelifts. The popularity of aesthetic surgery among adolescents has increased in the past few years due to the rise of social media and unrealistic beauty standards.

The risks of Adolescent Aesthetic Surgery

Adolescent aesthetic surgery is a major decision that should not be taken lightly. The process is complex and involves a certain amount of risk. Some risks include infection, scarring, anesthesia risks, bleeding, and nerve damage.

Apart from these risks, adolescents who undergo aesthetic surgery may not understand the permanence of the procedure and may regret their decision later on. They may also struggle with body dysmorphia and develop an addiction to plastic surgery, which can lead to a vicious cycle.

What Are The Alternatives to Adolescent Aesthetic Surgery

There are alternative ways to improve one’s appearance that do not involve aesthetic surgery.

These include diet and exercise, healthy skincare practices, and non-invasive cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser treatments. Adolescents should focus on building their self-esteem and confidence by practising self-care, surrounding themselves with positive influences and rejecting unattainable beauty standards set by the media and beauty industry.

The Role of Parents and Mental Health Professionals

Parents play a crucial role in helping their adolescents navigate the pressure to meet unrealistic beauty standards. They can do this by promoting healthy body image, encouraging open communication, and advocating for their child’s well-being.

Mental health professionals, such as counsellors and therapists, can help adolescents who are struggling with body dysmorphia and low self-esteem. They can guide adolescents towards practising self-love, providing strategies for coping with negative emotions, and helping them develop their sense of identity outside of their appearance.

Conclusion

The pressure to meet unrealistic beauty standards has a profound effect on adolescent’s mental and physical health. While aesthetic surgery may seem like an easy solution, it is paramount to understand the risks and alternatives.

Building self-esteem and confidence through self-care and rejecting the media’s unattainable beauty standards can help adolescents develop a positive body image. Parents and mental health professionals have a critical role in helping adolescents navigate through these challenges.