Pretty privilege, surgery stigma and the cosmetic procedure paradox

Pretty privilege, surgery stigma and the cosmetic procedure paradox

From All In The Mind by ABC Australia

April 25, 2026 · 30 min

About this episode

This episode explores the psychological impact of cosmetic procedures on individuals and society.

Cosmetic procedures aren't reserved for celebrities anymore - they're becoming more and more accessible for every day people. So if we're able to alter our looks or avoid the appearance of aging altogether, what impact does this have on our psychology? Today, we examine how changing our faces might change how we see each other. Please note, this episode includes some discussion of body image and mental health issues such as body dysmorphic disorder. Take care while listening. Guests: Professor Gemma SharpClinical psychologist and researcherAdelaide University Dr Sarah BonellResearch FellowBolton Clarke Research Institute Credits: Presenter/producer: Sana Qadar Reporter/producer: Rose Kerr Senior producer: James Bullen Sound engineer: Roi Huberman More information: What's the connection between cosmetic procedures and mental health? Australian Women's Lived Experiences of Stigmatization After Cosmetic Surgery: A Qualitative Investigation The cosmetic surgery paradox: Toward a contemporary understanding of cosmetic surgery popularisation and attitudes Under the knife: Unfavorable perceptions of women who seek plastic surgery New AHPRA Guidelines Require Psychological Screening for…

People in this episode

Host: Sana Qadar

Guests: Professor Gemma Sharp, Dr Sarah Bonell

Topics covered

  • cosmetic procedures
  • body image
  • mental health
  • aging
  • societal perceptions
  • body dysmorphic disorder

Keywords

  • cosmetic surgery
  • mental health
  • body image
  • body dysmorphic disorder
  • cosmetic injectables
  • Gen Z
  • surgery stigma

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Adelaide University, Bolton Clarke Research Institute, Butterfly foundation

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