In recent years, plastic surgery has experienced a significant boom, driven largely by young customers in developing countries who are increasingly seeking cosmetic enhancements. This trend has become particularly noticeable in Lebanon, where individuals like Peter Makhlouf, a member of the Lebanese community in Boston, have made an annual pilgrimage to Beirut, not only to visit family but also to take advantage of the country’s thriving plastic surgery industry.
Makhlouf, 29, recalls how the women in his family and community began their cosmetic journeys with simple procedures, such as lip fillers and teeth whitening. However, over time, their procedures evolved to include more advanced surgeries, including cheekbone lifts, nose jobs, and other enhancements. This shift towards more complex cosmetic work has become so widespread that Makhlouf notes, “I don’t know anyone who hasn’t gotten plastic surgery.”
This growing trend reflects a broader shift in developing countries, where plastic surgery is no longer a luxury reserved for the wealthy but has become a common part of life, especially among the younger generation. Factors such as increasing disposable income, greater awareness of global beauty standards, and the rise of social media have fueled the demand for cosmetic procedures, particularly in countries like Lebanon.
As cosmetic surgery becomes more accessible, younger people are increasingly using it as a tool for self-improvement, with procedures aimed at enhancing physical appearance to boost confidence and align with personal and societal expectations. The affordability of these surgeries in countries like Lebanon, where medical costs are lower compared to places like the U.S., has made it a popular destination for both locals and international clients seeking high-quality yet affordable cosmetic procedures.
The trend is not limited to Lebanon but is also growing in other developing countries, where rising disposable incomes and changing cultural norms continue to shape the demand for plastic surgery. What was once considered a niche luxury is now becoming an integral part of the beauty and wellness culture for many young people around the world.
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