Pop Culture and Plastic Surgery - Media Depictions of Cosmetic Treatments

In today's world, people are obsessed with their appearance, striving for perfection in their face, body and self-image. Whenever a celebrity has plastic surgery, whether it's another facelift for Joan Rivers or Ashlee Simpson-Wentz's nose job, it's front-page news all over the tabloids. The number of plastic surgery procedures done each year grows in leaps and bounds, and now production companies are finding ways to capitalize on this phenomenon in reality television. Television shows highlighting plastic surgery continue to sprout up everywhere with their Cinderella stories of how plastic surgery has changed a person's life in a blink of an eye. The Swan and Extreme Makeover are prime examples of how many view plastic surgery. But it can be somewhat deceiving as plastic surgery is shown as a "quick fix," so to speak, and is misleading to the general public. Oftentimes, the producers and directors will seek out the most outrageous stories of plastic surgery, as it makes for good television. Or in fictional settings, plastic surgeons may be portrayed as immoral and unethical, as in the series Nip/Tuck. Now more plastic surgeons are speaking out about the truths about plastic surgery to dispel the myths brought about in pop culture today. Such TV shows as Dr. 90210 and Plastic Surgery: Before and After have helped to counter some of the false doctrine that is believed by many viewers. The way plastic surgery is being portrayed in pop culture gives many potential patients unrealistic expectations about what plastic surgery can do for them. In the book, The Facelift Diaries, two university professors strive to show everyone the truth behind facelifts, how it's a major surgical procedure and all the challenges that come with it. Plastic surgeons continue to field calls about certain procedures, such as breast enlargement, liposuction, and tummy tucks, and dispel the misleading information patients have acquired from the media and today's culture. Sure, these TV shows may be a good source of entertainment, but to learn the real deal about plastic surgery, contact a qualified plastic surgeon in your area for a consultation.