Evaluation of body contouring surgery today: A 30-year perspective

Concepts of beauty have been continuously evolving throughout the history o f mankind. The voluptuous figures that were idealized by artists in the pas t have been substituted by slimmer forms. Medical advances in this century have permitted safe and efficient surgical correction of contour deformitie s. Until recently, these alterations were mostly hidden under heavy clothin g or were accepted reluctantly. Current fashion trends generally promote bo dy-revealing attire. The media frequently encourage the importance of fitne ss and good health, linking these qualities with youthfulness and beauty. T he subliminal and the overt message is that these are necessary and desirab le requirements for social acceptance and professional success.