What in the World Why is plastic surgery so popular in China?
Apr 28, 2025
In this discussion, BBC journalist Natalia Zuo, known for her documentary on China's booming cosmetic surgery industry, uncovers the pressures driving young women towards extreme beauty standards. She highlights how filtered images on social media and easy access to procedures are transforming perceptions of beauty and success. Zuo also reveals the dangerous rise of unlicensed clinics and the urgent need for regulation, offering a glimpse into the profound societal impacts of this trend.
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Abby's Cosmetic Surgery Journey
- Abby is a Chinese influencer who underwent over 100 cosmetic procedures in 20 years.
- She says she'll never stop pursuing beauty despite risks and complications.
Explosive Growth of Industry
- China's cosmetic surgery market has grown at least fivefold in the past decade.
- It's among the world's largest, but many procedures happen in unregulated clinics.
Popular Procedures & Influences
- Popular surgeries include double eyelid, rhinoplasty, and jawline reduction.
- Influences come from Western beauty standards, Korean pop culture, and anime.