Is Social Media Having An Effect On Plastic Surgery And Eating Disorders?

Social media allows us to share photos, videos, information, and events in real time with people all over the planet. Its effect on pop culture is undeniable. In an era where reality and social media stars have risen to fame for simply sharing their lifestyles on the web, it should come as no surprise that this medium is shaping the minds and behaviors of the general public. Sadly, more people than ever have taken to drastically altering their physical appearances by way of plastic surgery and dangerous eating habits.

The popularity of reality stars like Kylie Jenner and Blac Chyna is sending more and more women to plastic surgeons than ever before. There are lots of fans out there who are insecure about their looks and strive to fit in. They are willing to go under the knife for breast implants and fat transfers, however, the trend is gravitating towards more non-surgical procedures to change other parts of their bodies. 

According to Real Self.com, some of the more preferred methods include injections of hyaluronic acid which serves as a temporary filler for nose jobs (up 20%), lip plumping (up 19%), and softening the jawline. These fillers are less invasive, reversible, and more affordable options with shorter recovery time. Butt injections are all the rage thanks to Amber Rose, Kim Kardashian, and Nicki Minaj. And instead of liposuction and tummy tucks, a fat cell-freezing procedure called CoolSculpting (up 29%) is all the rage.

As quickly as these procedures are done, the before and after photos are being uploaded to social media accounts like Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Tumblr. The response can be a mixed bag. On one end of the spectrum, there are those who praise these rapid transformations. While on the other, there are the bullies and the critics who are relentless in their insults. This kind of backlash causes online beefs with people the victims do not even know. Those who are desperate for affirmation of their new look have been motivated to have more work done.

Poor body image, or body dysmorphia,  can be cited as one of the causes of this spike in plastic surgery. However, a whole new community has emerged on social media that celebrates eating disorders. Building on the existing pro-ana (anorexic) communities, the pro-ED (eating disorder) and Thinspo (thin inspiration, or Thinsporation) movements have been highly criticized because they encourage anorexia, bulimia , and any other behaviors that produce skeletal-like bodies. The backlash has extended beyond just those genres. Even fitness personalities have been attacked regarding their physical appearances for being too fit (translation, "too thin").

Eugenia Cooney has over 1 million subscribers to her YouTube channel. Campaigns to have her banned have failed. It seems that efforts to shut down the accounts of Pro-ED enthusiasts only fan the flames with new groups popping up in response. 

The power of social media is undeniable and will likely increase is it evolves. It has been used to launch many a career and expand many a brand. For better or for worse, it is here to stay. Now whether or not it becomes a tool to promote more positive images is anybody's guess. Only time will tell. You be the judge.