As the number of people going under the knife here in the UAE continues to rise, we take a look at the pro’s and con’s behind body alterations.

A button nose, poutier lips, a more buxom figure, or perhaps a slightly slimmer silhouette…

Is there anything you’d change about your body?

Years ago, we were pretty much lumbered with what we’d been born with.

But today, thanks to huge advancements is cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures, there’s the option to change your entire appearance, if you so wish.

And many people do.

As Dr. Justin Thomas, Assistant Professor in the Department of Natural Science & Public Health, at the College of Arts & Sciences for Abu Dhabi's Zayed University, tells ARN – appearance matters:

Indeed, here in the Middle East, such surgery is increasingly common.

According to statistics, it’s still predominantly women who are having these procedures done; but medical professionals say men are increasingly turning to such surgery, as social pressure steadily mounts, for us to remain beautiful and youthful for as long as possible

Although this process is a common and generally accepted part of society in many parts of the world, there are those who disapprove.

However, as Professor Dr. Ashok Govila, Consultant Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon at the Lifeline Medical Center, tells ARN: surgery can be a blessing for people with niggling appearance problems which have taken their toll: impacting confidence, happiness and overall lives:

The important thing, agree professionals here in the UAE, is that any procedure is undertaken for the right reasons.

Dr. Michael Salivaras, Chief Medical Officer and Director of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery at the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Hospital, explains fixating on a perceived blemish can be the mind’s way of avoiding other problems:

And this isn’t a new phenomenon.

Global stats show diseases affecting how people view their own bodies – and more specifically its faults – are on the rise.

These include anorexia nervosa, bulimia and – the most commonly associate with surgery – Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD).

This disease, often referred to as ‘Imagined Ugliness’, sees sufferers displace concern about other problems onto a perceived body abnormality.

According to Zayed University’s Dr. Justin Thomas, research indicates a rise in people suffering from this affliction across the UAE:

In fact, the latest global research shows that 15% of people who go in for such procedures are in fact diagnosable with BDD.

It’s this worrying trend that is prompting surgeons across the UAE to call for greater psychological support to be made available, to people considering cosmetic or plastic surgery.

The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery’s Dr. Michael Salivaras explains that in many countries around the world, any potential patient must first meet with a psychologist.

It’s compulsory – otherwise they simply aren’t allowed to proceed with the surgery.

He believes this legislation should be introduced in the UAE; but admits it would be a bitter pill for many patients to swallow:

LOCAL NEWS

News is proudly sponsored by: