Risking one’s health for a nose job seems absolutely ridiculous. How did this practice of self-mutilation, masquerading as a search for beauty, become not only a society-sanctioned addiction but also a $15 billion industry?
Economic greed and insecurity in women are such a potent combination that plastic surgery now rivals, economically, the much-criticized pornography industry along with almost every celebrity in Hollywood. The desire to look like a star is one of the most prevalent motivations for high-society ladies to indulge in cosmetic surgery. This obsession with beauty goes against our 150-year battle of American feminism to empower women.
Media has influenced our society to value appearance, and they have defined beauty for us. The obsession to look a certain way has forced our society to become more judgmental, which our nation has tried so hard to work against.
Instead of trying to change flaws, we should embrace them. The imperfections are what make us unique individuals. Sure, getting a breast augmentation might improve your self-esteem, but it is only a temporary fix until you find something else that makes you insecure.
Your flaws are part of what makes you who you are. If someone criticized your personality, you would say, “Sorry, that’s just who I am.” So why would you allow people to influence alterations to your physical appearance? You should be proud of how you look and embrace your flaws. That is part of your identity and should not be altered. Flaws are sexy; you just have to work it.
Briana Chenkin is a Ranger reporter. She can be reached at lbchenkin@my.actx.edu.
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