Cosmetic Surgery And The Internal Morality Of Medicine
Cosmetic surgery has been a controversial topic in the medical world for decades. While some people view it as a way to enhance their physical appearance and boost their self-esteem, others see it as an unnecessary and potentially dangerous procedure that should be avoided at all costs. The debate over the ethics of cosmetic surgery has been ongoing, with many arguing that it goes against the internal morality of medicine. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of cosmetic surgery and its impact on the medical profession.
The Rise Of Cosmetic Surgery
Cosmetic surgery has become increasingly popular in recent years, with millions of people undergoing procedures such as breast augmentation, liposuction, and facelifts. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there were over 18 million cosmetic procedures performed in the United States in 2018 alone.
There are several reasons why people choose to undergo cosmetic surgery. For some, it is a way to correct physical deformities or injuries, while for others, it is a way to improve their appearance and boost their self-confidence. However, there are also those who undergo cosmetic surgery simply because they feel pressure to conform to societal beauty standards.
The Internal Morality Of Medicine
The internal morality of medicine refers to the ethical principles that guide medical practice. These principles include beneficence (the obligation to do good), non-maleficence (the obligation to do no harm), autonomy (respect for the patient's right to make decisions about their own healthcare), and justice (fairness in the distribution of healthcare resources).
Many argue that cosmetic surgery goes against the internal morality of medicine, as it is often performed for purely cosmetic reasons and does not have any medical benefits. Critics argue that cosmetic surgery is a form of medicalization of beauty, where society's standards of beauty are medicalized and turned into a medical problem that needs to be fixed.
The Risks Of Cosmetic Surgery
Cosmetic surgery, like any other medical procedure, comes with its own set of risks and complications. Some of the risks associated with cosmetic surgery include infection, bleeding, scarring, and anesthesia complications. In some cases, cosmetic surgery can also lead to unsatisfactory results or even disfigurement.
It is important for individuals considering cosmetic surgery to fully understand the risks involved and to carefully weigh the potential benefits against the potential harms. They should also choose a qualified and experienced surgeon who is board-certified in plastic surgery.
The Role Of The Medical Profession
As healthcare professionals, doctors have a responsibility to uphold the internal morality of medicine and to prioritize their patients' health and well-being above all else. While there may be some situations where cosmetic surgery is necessary for medical reasons, such as reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy, doctors should not perform cosmetic surgery simply to meet their patients' aesthetic desires.
It is important for the medical profession to take a critical look at the role of cosmetic surgery in healthcare and to ensure that it is being performed ethically and responsibly. This includes educating patients about the risks and benefits of cosmetic surgery, providing them with alternative options, and avoiding the medicalization of beauty.
Conclusion
Cosmetic surgery has become an increasingly popular procedure in recent years, with millions of people undergoing various types of surgeries to improve their appearance. While some argue that cosmetic surgery goes against the internal morality of medicine, others see it as a way to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals and boost their self-confidence. Ultimately, it is up to individuals to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of cosmetic surgery and to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon who will prioritize their health and well-being above all else.