Status, Success, and Surgery: Stress Behind Risky Cosmetic Procedures

Abstract

Plastic surgery is instrumental in increasing attractiveness for all individuals. Attractiveness has been historically paramount in predicting an individual's success (Hamermesh, 18). This can be progressively stressful for young women who are pressured to achieve social mobility (e.g., career success, securing a mating partner, economic prosperity). This research examines if single young adult women feel pressured to undergo risky plastic surgery to increase their social mobility when faced with physical beauty and financial status insecurity. We hypothesized that single young adult women would feel more inclined to receive plastic surgery to ensure upward social mobility (increase income and status) when they feel physically and financially insecure. In this study, participants (n=247) completed an online survey with various priming manipulations and scales, including childhood SES and self-perceived mate value. Using those scales, the moderation mediation model was employed to determine self-perceived attractiveness and perceived financial vulnerability. It further evaluated the statistical relationship between participants' acceptance of cosmetic surgery and pursuing career aspirations to achieve upward social mobility. The study revealed that regardless of their perceived financial vulnerability and attractiveness, women presented higher acceptance of cosmetic surgery to achieve upward social mobility. These results demonstrate that plastic surgery is becoming increasingly strategic and instrumental in promoting the desired life outcomes (career success, mating ability, and social status) for young women regardless of socioeconomic status or beauty standards. This research aims to include women from varying socioeconomic statuses and older age demographic for future efforts.