The biggest fear reported by those considering plastic surgery is a negative reaction from other people. How other people view us is extremely important, otherwise no one would be doing this in the first place.

The social stigma associated with cosmetic surgery has been around for decades and shows no signs of abating anytime soon. Those who are contemplating it should consider this stigma when making their decision and fully commit to dealing with the repercussions of it.

Plastic surgery can be reconstructive after an injury or defect, or cosmetic to improve the aesthetic appearance of the patient. Usually it is the cosmetic form that people choose to judge unfairly. This judgment can come in many different ways: a sideways glance from a stranger, a raised eyebrow from an acquaintance, or even an entire sermon from a close friend or family member. People are very determined by this treatment for cosmetic reasons and often want to project those feelings onto the person who chooses this surgical treatment for themselves.

Sometimes it is a question of jealousy: the person who does not like you secretly wants to change their appearance and thinks that you are “cheating”. And other times it is a moral dilemma: whose place is to modify our appearances? What right do we have to make such changes in our physical being?

The opinions of others can certainly take their toll when deciding on this treatment. Of course, you want to please your loved ones and you don’t want to engage in behaviors that offend them.

So if your mother says that “plastic surgery is for careless narcissists,” you are naturally inclined to listen to her and choose not to have the operation you want.

However, the decision whether or not to change a part of your body is a very personal one and must be made by yourself. Other people may have a say, but you need to maintain a personal determination to do what you know in your heart to be right for your body, your self-esteem, and your life.

People who know and love you are unlikely to disown you for something like plastic reconstructive treatment. At the very least, the dissenters in your life will be upset that you didn’t follow their advice and may be a bit cold or disapproving for a while. This type of stigma can be worth the impressive benefits that a cosmetic procedure can have on your life. If you think plastic surgery is right for you, don’t let anyone stop you from making a decision that could improve your life.