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BeautyThe Facade of Beauty: A History of Belittling Women with 'Fake' Faces

The Facade of Beauty: A History of Belittling Women with ‘Fake’ Faces

The Double Standard of ‘Fake’ Faces

Throughout history, women who chose to undergo cosmetic procedures have been belittled and ridiculed. The British dating reality show Love Island, in which contestants are quizzed on their partner’s favorite sex positions and turn-ons and turn-offs, was recently criticized for its lack of understanding about the growing market in men’s plastic surgery. Contestant Hugo Hammond sparked outrage by repeatedly disparaging women who were “fake,” unaware that his comments were offensive to many.

This issue is not new. In the 17th and 18th centuries, women were associated with disease and deception. The term “loose women” referred to those who used cosmetic procedures, padding, and other tricks to appear more attractive to men. This stereotype perpetuated the notion that women who altered their physical appearance were deceitful and untrustworthy.

A Brief History of Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgery has a long and storied history, dating back to ancient civilizations in India and Italy. The earliest accounts of reconstructive surgery date back to 600 BC in India, where surgeons created new noses using skin flaps. In the 16th century, Italian surgeons performed similar procedures to recreate noses from skin flaps on the forehead or cheek.

The most famous surgeon of this era is Gaspare Tagliacozzi, who published the first major Latin guide to reconstructing the nose, lip, or ear using skin from the arm. His work was widely acclaimed and laid the foundation for modern plastic surgery.

The Conundrum of Effortless Beauty

In the 17th and 18th centuries, women faced a difficult challenge: they needed to appear attractive and alluring, without appearing to have made any effort. English poet Robert Herrick praised women for their “sweet neglect,” which required them to be “still to be powdered, still perfumed” without revealing the “art” and labor involved.

This concept of “effortless beauty” has been problematic throughout history. Women who chose to undergo cosmetic procedures were often seen as “faking” their appearance, rather than letting their natural beauty shine through. However, the reality is that many women have undergone procedures to improve their mental and physical health, rather than solely for aesthetic reasons.

Rethinking the Stigma Surrounding Cosmetic Procedures

It’s essential to recognize that cosmetic procedures can be life-changing for many individuals. People undergo surgery for a range of reasons, from reconstructive surgery following an accident or illness to simply wanting to enhance their appearance.

Instead of perpetuating the stigma surrounding cosmetic procedures, we should focus on educating ourselves and others about the importance of bodily autonomy. It’s crucial to respect individuals’ decisions to undergo surgery and to avoid making assumptions about their motivations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the stigma surrounding cosmetic procedures is rooted in a complex web of historical and societal factors. Rather than shaming and judging individuals who undergo surgery, we should work to create a culture of acceptance and understanding. By doing so, we can help to eliminate the double standard that has persisted for centuries, and promote a society that values individuals’ autonomy and freedom to make their own choices.

FAQs

Q: Why are some cosmetic procedures covered by the NHS, while others are not?
A: The NHS covers reconstructive procedures aimed at improving physical health, such as breast reduction to alleviate back pain or mental health issues. Aesthetic procedures, such as breast augmentation or rhinoplasty, are usually not covered unless they are deemed necessary for reconstructive purposes.

Q: Why is it important to respect individuals’ decisions to undergo cosmetic procedures?
A: Bodily autonomy is a fundamental right, and individuals should be free to make choices about their own bodies without fear of judgment or ridicule. Respecting others’ decisions can help to create a culture of acceptance and understanding.

Q: What are the differences between reconstructive and aesthetic surgeries?
A: Reconstructive surgeries are typically performed to restore physical function or to improve mental health, while aesthetic surgeries are performed solely for cosmetic reasons. However, some procedures, such as breast reduction, can have both reconstructive and aesthetic benefits.

Q: What are some of the historical and societal factors that have contributed to the stigma surrounding cosmetic procedures?
A: The stigma surrounding cosmetic procedures has been perpetuated through centuries of gendered and societal stereotypes. Women have historically been associated with disease, deception, and untrustworthiness, which has contributed to the notion that those who undergo cosmetic procedures are “faking” their appearance.

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