The definition of beauty has never been constant. Historically, cultural perceptions idolized extreme thinness because of the media, fashion, and advertising industries.
For example, models featured in Victoria’s Secret runway shows often feature a “heroine” aesthetic that is characterized by a thin, nearly unattainable physique. Runway shows and fashion magazines have thus helped shape society’s perception of attractiveness.
“Over time, the industry has seen shifts to emphasize curves and curvier figures that were previously neglected,” said Sacha Obaid, M.D., of North Texas Plastic Surgery. “Factors like media representation and social media visibility have certainly redefined beauty in a way that is now more accessible to a larger number of women.”
Thanks to the body positivity movement, which has largely been fueled by social media and the public’s demand for diversity, we are slowly shifting into an era of acceptance of all body types.
The Rise of the Body Positivity and Diversity Movement
The lean physique was widely accepted as the standard definition of beauty thanks to the influence of the media, fashion, and social media. Interestingly, the shift towards body inclusivity was also amplified by these channels, and while there are many factors that caused the change, Lane Bryant’s 2010 commercial featuring plus-size model Ashley Graham marks a pivotal turning point.
The ad was intended to promote Lane Bryant’s Cacique line, but it became the center of a huge media storm that would forever change beauty standards in the United States and abroad. Major television networks declined to air the commercial during prime-time slots like American Idol, pushing Lane Bryant to accuse these networks of a double standard since similar advertisements showing slim-sized models were aired during the same slots from brands like Victoria’s Secret.
The controversy blew up, catapulting the ad to more than 800,000 views on YouTube. Major news outlets like The New York Post covered the controversy, further amplifying discussions about body image and the acceptance of diverse body types in mainstream media.
Today, social media platforms like Instagram, X, and Facebook are powerful tools to unite people with a common cause. Hashtags like #EffYourBeautyStandards, started by plus-size model and activist Tess Holliday, continue to challenge traditional beauty norms. As a result, the fashion industry is now including plus-size models in their campaigns to reflect societal demands.
How This Has Impacted the Plastic Surgery Industry
Today, there is an increasing demand for curvaceous figures in plastic surgery, thanks to changing societal perceptions. Procedures like the Brazilian butt lift and breast augmentation have exploded in popularity. Tens of thousands of these procedures are performed in the US every year, although the demand for an exaggerated physique has largely waned.
Brazilian Butt Lift
Popularly referred to as a BBL, this procedure involves liposuction to remove fat from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or hips. The fat is then purified and injected into the buttocks, which enhances their size and shape, depending on the patient’s preference. While it is known for achieving fuller results, BBLs are known to be some of the riskiest cosmetic procedures, largely because of the potential for a fat embolism, which happens when fat deposits find their way into the bloodstream. The fatality rate has been reported to be as high as 1 in 3,000, but it is still one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the U.S. today.
Breast Augmentation
Another popular procedure involves inserting implants or transferring fat to increase breast size, improve symmetry, or restore volume lost due to weight reduction or pregnancy. Some of the risks associated with these procedures include implant ruptures or leakages, which can lead to an embolism. Silent ruptures may sometimes be less noticeable, causing the saline solution or silicone to flow to surrounding tissues.
Conclusion
The definition of beauty has changed over the years, thanks to influences from the media and fashion. While a lean physique has been accepted as standard for a long time, societal perceptions are shifting thanks to plus-size model visibility.
This shift is evident in the plastic surgery space, where patients are increasingly looking for a more curvaceous look, facilitated by procedures like BBLs and breast augmentation.
