Men And Rhinoplasty: Plastic Surgery Isn’t Just For Women

We all probably agree that much of what shapes our culture is influenced by external factors, such as the media. The results of that shaping can often be disjointed compared to reality. We have come to understand that stereotypes shape our perception. One such stereotype, is that plastic surgery, particularly rhinoplasty- or nose job, is really only a female procedure. Perhaps the notion of plastic surgery is for many men, seen as conflicting with principles of masculinity. The truth is, aesthetic surgery doesn’t hold regard towards gender. Sometimes, we all could use a little help.

While it is true that over ninety percent of all plastic surgery procedures are performed upon females[1], men too can enjoy the benefit of appearance improvement. Studies increasingly show that not only can a procedure, such as rhinoplasty improve self-image and self-concept, but physical appearance can have a significant impact on employment as well.[2] In actuality, men have and do regularly undergo plastic surgery, not just to correct damage or deformity, but also to improve appearances.

The largest issue at hand when considering the male to female ratio in regards to plastic surgery, is the pigeonholing effect that it can have on gender. Often the surgeries are for very different reasons, and achieve a different result. For many men, the purpose behind getting plastic surgery is not to remove or subdue traces of masculinity, as per the myth, but to enhance it.  So the big question is, is it reasonable for men to consider rhinoplasty to correct an issue with their nose? Will this somehow call their masculinity into question? The answer to this is absolutely not. In fact, chances, you have known a male who has had a nose procedure, and not even known it. The desire to achieve a positive self-image is one that both men and women share.  Men can have the same resolve to feel better about himself as any other human being, regardless of gender.

Plastic surgery is a personal choice. It is not one that any one but the individual can make for themselves. Often, we find that outside influencers, like television and other forms of the media can hold sway on how we perceive the world around us. Men, like women can be molded into stereotypes about what behaviors each respective gender is expected to exhibit. When it comes to our bodies and our self-image, these outside influencers cannot dictate how we feel about ourselves internally, or correct physical issues that the body is subject to. In short, the fictions of gender expectations cannot subdue the reality of the human condition.  Men, like women, can enjoy all the emotional and physical benefits of a personal improvement procedure and need not be cumbered by typecasts.