Is offering cosmetic surgery still taboo in France 2023?
When it's time to make presents for your loved ones, an idea pops into your head: Jérôme has such a complex about his baldness that he won't show his face without a cap on, and is brooding. Would giving him a hair transplant be a good idea? In a changing France, the taboo surrounding the offer of cosmetic surgery persists despite growing acceptance. Let's delve into the intricacies of this delicate social dynamic, revealing the changing relationship between the appearance of the new French generations and the role of social networks in 2023.
Cosmetic surgery in France: An evolutionary perspective
Growing acceptance
At the heart of this transformation is the growing acceptance of cosmetic surgery in France. For example, since 2016, the number of liposuction procedures carried out in France has risen from 1.4 million to 1.9 million by 2021, particularly among the 19-34 age group. A trend that extends beyond our borders if we look at your hair transplant. worldwide. THE ISHRS (International society of Hair restauration) estimates that 703,000 hair transplants will be carried out in 2021, compared with more than 2.2 million patients in 2022.
This reflects a profound change in the way French society perceives the quest for beauty.
The influence of generations and social networks
Social networks play a crucial role in changing standards. Continuous exposure on the networks is shaping an increasingly prevalent culture of appearance. Young people are increasingly embracing the idea of appearance as a means of self-expression, but also as an indicator of social status. This is the argument of Jean-François Amadieu, Professor at the University of Paris 1er. He notes that our image is everywhere on the networks, and beauty confers many advantages. Benefits that are increasingly linked to economic or professional success, as demonstrated by the emergence of the profession of influencer.
Cultural taboos in France around cosmetic surgery and appearance
The influence of generations and social networks
The traditional French cultural context often associates excessive preoccupation with one's image with vanity. In France we traditionally value authenticity, intelligence and charm over looks and appearance. Too much preoccupation with appearances can be seen as an attempt to mask one's true personality to compensate for a lack of substance. A strong cultural heritage, if we think of Molière's précieuses ridicules (a scathing critique of the use of precious language, mannerisms and appearances to appear noble and shine in society when the mind is poor).
This perception can make it difficult to accept the offer of cosmetic surgery.
Fear of social judgment
Fear of judgement is also a major barrier. Critical thinking and the expression of it are valued in France. Direct criticism and mockery are more accepted than elsewhere. This increases the social pressure to make a faux pas. This creates a real apprehension that influences the willingness to undergo cosmetic surgery.
Indeed, what could be worse than a poisoned gift? A gift of cosmetic surgery can be perceived as a veiled criticism of the recipient's appearance. Especially from the point of view of generations brought up without the influence of social networks, accentuating the cultural divide with millennials and generation Z. It is therefore imperative to communicate transparently on the subject.
There are several types of hair loss. These vary according to their cause.
The link between appearance and self-esteem
The power of appearance in society
Despite the cultural context in France, which focuses less on appearances than the USA, appearance is still important, especially in terms of self-esteem. Let's take a closer look at what Jean-François Amadieu has to say about the importance of appearance in building social status and self-esteem. In his view, the effects can be seen from childhood onwards. He explains that people around them attribute more qualities to cute children. This dynamic continues later in life: jobseekers are discriminated against on the basis of their age and appearance, both of which are linked to image. This is known as the Halo effect.
For example, if someone looks good, or is very attractive, we attribute a whole series of positive characteristics to them, without even checking that they actually have them. It's a cognitive bias that we all have.
Investment in appearance elsewhere in the world.
This is in contrast to France, where cosmetic surgery is often seen as a frivolous expense. Some cultures, such as Korea, see appearance as a genuine investment. Parents willingly offer cosmetic surgery to their children at the end of their studies, seeing it as a means of ensuring their future professional success. It is therefore common to offer 'heavy' plastic surgery such as rhinoplasty to young women. All the more so with the advent of influencers monetising their images.
Appearance as a factor in self-esteem
Whether we like it or not, physical appearance plays a crucial role in our self-esteem. In particular, when we undergo significant changes, such as losing our hair (see article here), an accident .... The gap between your mental image and the mirror can be particularly brutal when you undergo a radical transformation. And this can have serious consequences for your well-being.
Of course it's not the only factor, but it's a very real one, even among the French! A study by 2019 revealed that only 58% of French people were fully satisfied with their physical appearance.
Why offer cosmetic surgery?
The positive impact of cosmetic surgery
Far from being a simple physical transformation, cosmetic surgery has a significant impact on people's emotional lives. Studies show a significant improvement in self-esteem after these procedures. Surgery can really help you feel better. But it is not the only solution; psychological support is just as important. Especially as it is important to have a realistic view of the possibilities of cosmetic surgery and to be aware of its limitations.
Offering cosmetic surgery to a loved one who has expressed a wish in this respect also means enabling them to have a self-image in harmony with their physical appearance. Without necessarily being a 180-degree transformation of the person, particularly with minimally invasive surgeries such as the hairof beard Mesotherapy, wrinkle filling...
Cost-effective cosmetic surgery
In France, non-essential cosmetic surgery is not reimbursed by social security and represents a substantial budget. A price that is not always affordable for either the person expressing the need or their family and friends. What are the solutions? These aesthetic surgeries are also performed in countries where the costs are much lower for a similar or even superior quality in some cases. Hair transplants in Turkey, for example, often cost between €2,200 and €3,500 in Istanbul, compared with around €10,000 in France. Obviously, you need to be very selective about the clinic you choose and make sure that the support and follow-up are in French at the very least (see more details in the article following).
Conclusion on the taboo of offering cosmetic surgery
In 2023, there is growing acceptance of cosmetic surgery in France, particularly among young adults, with a significant increase in the number of liposuction procedures. Social networks are playing a major role in this development, shaping an increasingly prevalent culture of appearance and accentuating the influence of aesthetic criteria on social and even professional success.
Certain cultural taboos persist in France, especially among older people, but they are beginning to change. The positive impact of cosmetic surgery on self-esteem is undeniable, offering an opportunity to harmonise one's self-image with one's physical appearance.
So offering cosmetic surgery can be seen as a benevolent gesture, contributing to the emotional improvement of the individual.
Similar questions
Is offering cosmetic surgery a critical gesture in France?
Less and less! Beware of the generation gap, but if it's well managed, it's perfectly possible. To avoid any misinterpretation, communication on the subject must be open and respectful.
Is it strange that parents give their children plastic surgery?
In some cultures, such as Korea, it is common practice to offer cosmetic surgery as a graduation gift. It's seen as an investment in their children's future success. From social networks and influencers to the office, controlling one's image has become crucial. Cultural evolution in France suggests a gradual harmonisation with international trends, although this may take time.
What are the social benefits of beauty?
Beauty is often associated with social advantages, according to studies and Professor Jean-François Amadieu. Indeed, with the Halo effect, when a person has an advantageous or very attractive physique, we attribute a whole series of positive characteristics to them, without even checking that they actually have them.
Is hair transplantation in Turkey safe?
Generally speaking, yes. With reputable clinics, hair transplants in Turkey are considered safe and effective. However, you need to choose your clinic carefully.