Virginia L Blum, Professor of English at the University of Kentucky, argues that the makeover’s scenography centers on one key element: the before-and-after photograph.
Without this backdrop, the transformation cannot be effectively staged.
The “before” photo highlights the protagonist’s tragedy, enhanced by poor lighting and a lack of expression.
This image suggests that her actual life—a happy, active one—has not yet begun. In contrast, the “after” photo showcases a happier, improved version of the protagonist, poised for her new life, with much better lighting.
As cosmetic surgery stories become framed as narratives of overcoming loss, these photographs serve as essential evidence. As a photographer, I find the belief in miraculous transformations amusing, yet I appreciate the skill of talented plastic surgeons.
Like many, I am influenced by social media, which promotes unrealistic beauty ideals. (A study by Fardouly et al. (2015) notes that exposure to idealized images on social media contributes to body image dissatisfaction. Influencers present enhanced realities, creating cycles of comparison among followers. Plastic surgery addiction, though not formally recognized, describes a compulsive desire to attain an idealized appearance, often tied to Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). This relentless pursuit of perfection can lead to repeated surgeries.) Virginia Blum, in her book “Flesh Wounds”, argues that psychoanalysis and cosmetic surgery share a similar framework. While psychoanalysis aims to heal psychological suffering through introspection, cosmetic surgery seeks to alleviate it through physical change.
I favour psychoanalysis for uncovering authentic selves, viewing it as more powerful than the temporary results of plastic surgery.
Karl Menninger’s theory on polysurgery suggests that surgery can repeat underlying traumas and symbolically address deep-seated fears. This adds depth to the phenomenon of superficial modification.
The pursuit of “suffering to be better” reflects both dysmorphic disorder and societal rituals, echoing how people once adorned their bodies with tattoos and body art. Does the revival of these practices open a realm of impulse and freedom?
