The plastic surgery debate

I’ve often wondered what nurses think of plastic surgery as an option to enhance one’s looks. I think that anything can be fine—in moderation, that is. Today, we live in a world where we can go into a surgical suite and come out looking like a completely different person. We also live in a world where there is so much pressure to look “perfect.” We’re either too fat or too thin, too tall or too short, or too wrinkly and pale. We live in a world where we can fix anything—for a price. So what do we do? Should we be happy with what the cards have dealt us? Do we tweak what Mother Nature has in store for us?

In my opinion, looks do matter in some instances. Is it fair? No, but that’s the type of world we live in. Let’s say, for example, you’re interviewing people for a potential job, and one candidate is completely put together and gorgeous, and the second candidate is not so attractive and looks quite disheveled. Who do you think is going to make the best first impression?

Do I think nurses should pursue some sort of plastic surgery? If they are truly unhappy with something and it can be fixed, I say why not? I think if you’re a nurse in the plastic surgery field, a little work wouldn’t hurt. Nothing sells more than the product itself! The New York Times recently ran an article about hospitals in Prague offering their nurses free plastic surgery. The article argues that the nurses who opted for plastic surgery offered an ideal body image. In addition, the article stated that the surgery could have a negative influence, and the nurses could appear incompetent and would hold less value at the bedside.

I have to admit that since turning 30, I’ve started to dabble in injections and laser facials. I’ve been really happy with the results, too! I can see how people can go overboard. I often come out of the office wondering, “What else can I do to look better?” If you pick up any gossip magazine, you’re sure to see someone almost unrecognizable from various procedures. I wonder what they see when they look in the mirror. Is it deeper than just wanting to change the way they look?

Some people say I should just be happy with myself, and that’s true. But if you ask me, I am happy! I just want to enhance some of my features, not completely change them. I love the beauty industry and what it has to offer. My curiosity has even momentarily sparked an interest in working in an office like this when I’m a nurse! Oh, the possibilities of an RN!

What do you think about the plastic surgery debate? Have you indulged? Would you do it again?