The Fascinating World of Cosmetic Surgery: From Vanity to Necessity

The irony of Cosmetic Surgery and celebrity endorsements

It's a bit ironic that Demi Moore, an actress known for her role as a fading celebrity who undergoes a drastic anti-ageing procedure, received a Golden Globe award alongside a goody bag containing a voucher for a $40,000 cellular facelift. While the anti-ageing industry thrives, it's unlikely to halt the rise of cosmetic surgery. According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, cosmetic and aesthetic procedures are growing annually, with a 40% increase over the past five years.

Beyond Vanity: Cosmetic Surgery for Medical Reasons

Liz Dwyer, founder of the Future Beauty Show, emphasizes that many surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures are not driven by vanity. Often, individuals seek solutions to solve underlying problems such as birthmarks, acne, obesity, or hair loss caused by anxiety.

For Claire Craig, it was uneven breasts that had troubled her for years. A bra fitting incident in 2016 solidified her insecurities, leading her to pursue a breast augmentation in 2023. After experiencing life-changing results, she went on to have liposuction on her thighs.

The Global Reach of Cosmetic Surgery

Craig's surgeries highlight the trend of seeking cosmetic surgery abroad. She traveled to Thailand for her liposuction and paid less than half of the cost in Ireland. Despite being in the recovery phase, she expresses satisfaction with the results and encourages transparency and greater awareness in the industry.

Factors Influencing Cosmetic Surgery

The cost of procedures is a significant factor in the decision to go abroad for surgery. However, concerns about post-operative care can outweigh the financial benefits. Ms Siún Murphy, a plastic surgeon at Dublin's Blackrock Clinic, emphasizes the risks associated with unregulated clinics abroad and stresses the importance of quality post-operative care.

While some may consider cosmetic surgery as a way to change their appearance, Monica Ivani, a 44-year-old businesswoman, believes in looking natural and enhancing her existing features. She underwent an eye lift and recommends it to others, acknowledging that honesty and transparency can raise industry standards.

The Rise of Tweakments and Gender Neutrality

Even at the young age of 24, Patrick Blue has embraced several aesthetic treatments, including lip filler and Botox. He highlights that these services are becoming more affordable and socially acceptable, with men also seeking treatments for skin health and appearance.

Claire Craig's Diary of a Cosmetic Surgery Trip to Thailand

Claire Craig shares her detailed diary of her pre- and post-operative experiences in Thailand. She describes her initial consultations, the day of her surgery, and her recovery process.

Craig's account provides a glimpse into the realities ofcosmetic surgery abroad, emphasizing the importance of thorough research, careful preparation, and after-care.