Abstract: This article recounts a personal journey of transformation in attitudes toward plastic surgery. Initially judgmental, the author finds herself navigating her own surgical journey due to a life-altering diagnosis, leading to newfound understanding and acceptance of cosmetic procedures.
I was born with an anatomical peculiarity—one of my ears protrudes more than the other, a trait shared among several family members. As a child, I resorted to creative solutions like taping my ear back or sleeping on one side, hoping to wake up with symmetry. However, as I matured, I began to embrace my uniqueness. Even in my teenage years, I sported ponytails and hoop earrings, indifferent to any comments about my asymmetrical ears.
In my twenties, the rise of plastic surgery television shows caught my attention. I observed women opting for breast augmentation, liposuction, and lip fillers, all in pursuit of an idealized appearance. I found it bewildering that anyone could be so dissatisfied with their physical self to undergo such drastic measures. If I could embrace my distinct ears, why couldn’t others be content with their bodies? I believed there were far more pressing issues in life than superficial aesthetics and could not fathom undergoing surgery for cosmetic reasons.
My perspective shifted dramatically in my mid-thirties. While managing the chaos of raising four children and balancing work, I received a life-changing diagnosis: breast cancer. The mention of “mastectomy” by my oncologist left me feeling devastated. I had always thought of myself as someone who didn’t conform to societal pressures regarding body image—after all, I didn’t need my breasts for nursing my adopted children, and I had long accepted my flat-chested reality.
Despite my initial thoughts of undergoing a lumpectomy, I learned that it came with a higher risk of cancer recurrence. After much deliberation, I opted for a bi-lateral, skin-and-nipple-sparing mastectomy. Saying the word “mastectomy” took months; it was a daunting step.
Support from friends and family poured in, many reassuring me that they would make the same choice. They would often say, “It’s just a part of your body,” but I struggled with that notion. I ultimately realized that at thirty-five, I felt too young to lose this aspect of my femininity.
Walking into my plastic surgeon’s office for the first time was an eye-opening experience. The elegant decor and warm atmosphere struck me. Contrary to my expectations, the women in the waiting room were diverse in age, body type, and background. I had anticipated a room full of stereotypical “plastic” women, but instead, I saw everyday individuals who were dealing with their own unique challenges. This revelation filled me with guilt for my previous judgments.
Meeting with my surgeon eased my anxiety. She was empathetic and professional, addressing my concerns and outlining my options without suggesting unnecessary procedures to “enhance” my appearance. I left feeling empowered rather than ashamed.
Over the next two years, I returned to her office several times for follow-ups and to have my “foobs”—the affectionate term for my new implants—monitored. Each visit deepened my understanding of why people choose plastic surgery. I learned about reconstructive surgeries for women post-cancer, “Mommy Makeovers” for those finished having children, and breast reductions for relief from physical discomfort.
I came to realize that a healthy lifestyle doesn’t always yield the changes some desire, and sometimes, plastic surgery is the most viable option for those seeking satisfaction with their bodies. If individuals can afford it and it brings them joy, who am I to judge?
Reflecting on my journey, I recognize that my previous judgments stemmed from misconceptions about women who chose plastic surgery. I once believed they were superficial, but my experiences revealed that many embark on these paths for deeply personal reasons. If it enhances their happiness and well-being, then it is their choice to make.
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In summary, my journey from judging plastic surgery to understanding its significance in individual lives has been profound. Embracing one’s choices about their body, especially in the face of adversity, is a lesson in compassion and acceptance.
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