The Mind Body Connection Part III: Ethnicity

Part of one’s identity of course, is ethnicity. Identification with an ethnic group is often very important to our identity. One of the controversial subjects being discussed in the field of cosmetic surgery these days is where the line between self improvement and altering ethnic identity blurs. At Little Rock Cosmetic Surgery Center, we believe the choice to have surgery is up to the individual, and each individual has unique reasons for seeking cosmetic surgery. However, it is important that I understand the patient’s situation and motivations because I want every surgery to be successful.

You may remember a little while back there was much discussion when Julie Chen shared her secret about having her eyes done. Ms. Chen stated that she was not trying to look less Chinese, but only trying to get ahead in her career. Even though most of her family supported her, others did not. Ms. Chen also revealed several incidents of racism, including the discriminatory statements from her station’s management that prompted her to have blepharoplasty.

Many Asians and Asian Americans do decide to “Westernize” their appearance although there has been a movement away from this trend. And there are other ethnic groups globally that contain individuals who when enhancing their appearance seem to be emulating western culture’s stereotypical beauty ideal. However cosmetic surgeons loathe to judge these choices. In fact, it is our job to study and perfect ways to improve the appearance of the patient without diminishing the patient’s ethnic identity.

Take the issue of rhinoplasty in the Jewish, Arab, and African American communities. A study reported in 2012 included case examples juxtaposing two different situations of women seeking rhinoplasty. The connection the women felt to their families and ethnic communities was found to be the variable that was important. In one family rhinoplasty was considered a norm, no genetic traits were considered to be sacrificed. In the other family, rhinoplasty was perceived as an insult to a proud family tradition. On the other hand, in the United States, gone are the days when the mere fact of having cosmetic surgery was considered a betrayal to one’s ethnicity. In fact some famous African American women have been afraid they will be stigmatized as trying to look white, when the goal of cosmetic surgery was purely aesthetic. Also, let’s not forget, as the United States becomes more and more diverse and more individuals multiracial, what are considered ethnic features are changing, not to mention that what is considered “ethnic” varies regionally also.

At Little Rock Cosmetic Surgery we are aware that the balance of cosmetic improvement and maintaining personal and ethnic identity is an integral part of planning any cosmetic procedure. Give us a call for your consultation if you are considering cosmetic surgery.

Dr. Branman

Please call Melinda to set up your consultation 501 227- 0707