Attitudes and acceptance of the Saudi population toward cosmetic surgeries in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Knowledge and Attitude Towards Botulinum Toxin Use in Cosmetic Injections Among the Arar Population in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background The use of botulinum toxin (BT), commonly known as Botox, has become increasingly popular for cosmetic purposes, particularly in treating wrinkles and facial rejuvenation. While the efficacy of botulinum toxin in achieving desired aesthetic outcomes is well-established, it is also important to consider the level of public knowledge and awareness regarding this potent neurotoxin. This study investigates the knowledge and attitude towards botulinum toxin use in cosmetic injections in the Arar population. Methods This cross-sectional study utilized a self-report questionnaire distributed via social media platforms, employing randomized sampling from May to July 2024. The target population included adults aged 18 and older, regardless of gender, living in the city of Arar, Saudi Arabia. The data were collected through an online self-administered survey using a Google Forms questionnaire template, which was translated into the appropriate language. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results A total of four hundred and ten (410) participants responded to this study. The maximum number of participants, 149 (36.3%), were in the age group of 20-25 years, while the minimum number of participants, 6 (1.5%), was in the age group of 50-55 years. The results also showed that 341 (83.2%) of participants were females and 69 (16.8%) were males; 262 (63.9%) participants were aware of Botox treatment used in cosmetic clinics. Concerning the most prevalent non-surgical cosmetic treatments, 29 (7%) answered dental procedures, and 19 (4.6%) mentioned its use in pain. Conclusion This study found that 262 (63.9%) of the study population showed knowledge about botulinum toxins used in cosmetic injections. The majority of them were young individuals, females, or unmarried people. Only 83 (20%) were aware of the adverse effects of botulinum toxin. This low level of awareness about the potential risks associated with the use of botulinum toxins for cosmetic purposes is concerning and suggests the need for improved education and information dissemination.

Perception Toward Cosmetic Surgeries Among Adults in Saudi Arabia and Its Associated Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE

This study assessed the acceptance of cosmetic surgery among the Saudi population and examined its relationship with body dysmorphic disorder and the participants' demographic characteristics.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted between June 2023 and February 2024. A sample of 1368 participants were recruited from hospitals, clinics, and public places such as malls, parks, and universities and were asked to complete a self-administered, pre-validated, and open-access questionnaire about the presence of body dysmorphic disorder using the BDD scale and the acceptance of cosmetic surgery using the ACSS scale, analyzed using IBM Corp. Released 2015. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 23.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.

RESULTS

More than half of the participants were female, single, and had a higher educational level. Only 3.0% of the participants had previously undergone cosmetic surgery (CS). Rhinoplasty was the most common cosmetic surgery performed by both genders. More than half of the participants indicated that they had concerns about their appearance, which caused them distress, torment, or pain. However, only one-third of the participants demonstrated acceptance toward CS. There was a significant positive correlation between body dysmorphic disorders (BDD) and acceptance of the cosmetic surgery scale (ACSS). Moreover, higher significant acceptance for CS (p-value is <0.001) was observed in females, south region, 32- to 40-year-olds, postgraduate degrees of education, married persons, and those undergoing previous cosmetic surgery.

CONCLUSION

Concerns about appearance causing distress were prevalent among participants, yet acceptance of cosmetic surgery was moderate. Individuals with higher levels of BDD symptoms are more inclined to view cosmetic surgery as a viable solution to their perceived concerns about their appearance. Moreover, being female, from the southern region, aged 32 to 40 years, with postgraduate education, married individuals, and having prior cosmetic surgery experience are motives to accept CS. These findings underscore the complex interplay between psychological factors and demographic characteristics in shaping the acceptance of cosmetic surgery.

Aesthetic Procedures and Psychological Wellbeing in Saudi College Students: An In-Depth Exploration

Purpose

Minimally invasive aesthetic procedures are widely popular among the youth. Despite their prevalence, there is a significant gap in the research concerning the relationship between these procedures and psychological wellbeing, as well as an insufficient exploration of the barriers and motivators influencing their adoption, this study aims to address these gaps.

Methods

This cross-sectional study has utilized a secure online survey directed at Saudi university students as the target population. The survey was consisting of 18-item electronic questionnaire including of 4 parts (demographical data, history of psychological illness and screening of current psychological wellbeing using WHO-5 well-being tool, history of doing cosmetic procedure, or willingness to do in the future, barriers and motivators to do cosmetic procedures), and it was distributed across multiple social media platforms.

Results

A total of 8443 college students completed the study questionnaire. Exactly 1096 (13%) of the students underwent a cosmetic procedure. The most reported procedures were laser hair removal (9.1%), filler (5.3%), skin boosters (2.8%), and Botulinum toxin A injections (Botox) (2.6%). The most ranked motivators were being painless, with no side effects (8.8 out of 10), followed by being free (8.0 out of 10) and enhancing self-confidence (7.4 out of 10).

Conclusion

No significant difference recorded at the overall psychological well-being score between who underwent cosmetic procedures and who did not.

Awareness and Interest in Rhinoplasty and Its Postoperative Complications Among Females in the Northern Border Region, Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

Rhinoplasty is a popular cosmetic surgical procedure that aims to reshape the nose, enhance its appearance, and improve nasal function. This study investigated the awareness, attitudes, and interest in rhinoplasty among females in the Northern Border Region of Saudi Arabia, as well as their knowledge of potential postoperative complications.

METHODS

An online survey was used to perform a cross-sectional study. Female participants aged between 18 and 45 years, living in the Northern Border Region of Saudi Arabia, were selected. The questionnaire consisted of three main sections: personal information, attitude toward rhinoplasty, and complications of rhinoplasty.

RESULTS

905 females participated in our study. The majority (87.8%, n=795) had heard about rhinoplasty before, and 54.9% (n=497) knew someone who had undergone the surgery. Social media was the most common source of information about rhinoplasty (67.2%, n=608). A significant proportion of participants (72.4%, n=655) believed that their nose appearance sometimes or always limited their social and professional activities. However, only 16.7% (n=151) expressed a desire to change or improve their nose appearance through surgery. The educational status of the participant (*p*=0.027) and their father (*p*=0.011) were significantly associated with interest in rhinoplasty. Satisfaction with nose appearance, breathing, and family and friends' opinions about the participant's nose were also significantly associated with interest in rhinoplasty (*p*<0.001 for all). The majority of participants (88.4%, n=800) were aware of at least one complication, with the most recognized complications being breath disorders (74.6%, n=675), headache (70.6%, n=639), and mismatch of their new noses with the rest of their faces (69.8%, n=632). Age (*p*=0.008), city of residence (*p*<0.001), and satisfaction of family and friends with the participant's nose (*p*=0.019) were significantly associated with complication awareness.

CONCLUSION

This study found that women in Saudi Arabia's Northern Border Region had a high level of awareness and interest in rhinoplasty, despite concerns regarding the safety, availability of educational resources, and ethical considerations in promoting the procedure. The findings highlight the need for accurate and comprehensive information about rhinoplasty and its potential complications to be readily available to the public, particularly through targeted educational interventions and responsible advertising regulations.

The association between use of social media and the development of body dysmorphic disorder and attitudes toward cosmetic surgeries: a national survey

Introduction

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) causes distress due to one's negative appraisal of their body image. The development of BDD has been linked to the passive use of social media and photo-editing apps. People with BDD typically pursue cosmetic surgeries to remedy their perceived flaws. The dramatic increase in the use of photo-editing apps and their well-established effects on mental health is a public health concern.

Purpose

To study the association between use of social media and the development of BDD and acceptance toward cosmetic surgeries (ACSS) among Saudis.

Methods

An online, cross-sectional, validated survey conducted among Saudis 18 and older. Descriptive analyses were utilized for demographics and prevalence rates of main study variables. ANOVA was used to compare mean scores in BDD and ACSS among different demographic groups. Tukeys post-hoc test was done to identify the categories that were different when the ANOVA test showed a statistically significance. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 1,483 Saudi adults completed the questionnaire. Key results showed that BDD was found in 24.4 % of the sample. The percentage of participants with BDD who spent 4-7 h per day on Instagram and Snapchat (29%) was significantly higher than those who spent only less than an hour per day on these platforms (19%) (p < 0.001). Individuals with BDD had a significantly higher risk of accepting cosmetic surgery compared to those without BDD (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

A growing body of evidence suggests that social media may impact mental health in different ways. This study reveals that heavy use of these platforms is associated with negative appraisals about one's physical appearance, and it fosters one's tendency toward cosmetic surgery, especially among females.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices With Regard to Cosmetic Procedures Among the General Population in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background One of the most frequently carried out medical procedures is an aesthetic procedure. These procedures have become increasingly popular in our country due to various factors, such as body image dissatisfaction, the desire for perfection, and the expanding influence of social media. The aim of our study is to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices with regard to cosmetic procedures among the general population in the western region of Saudi Arabia. Methods This population-based cross-sectional study uses a self-report questionnaire distributed via social media platforms with randomized sampling between March and April 2023. The target population of this study is the general population in the western region of Saudi Arabia who are 18 years old and above from both genders. All participants who have congenital anomalies or mental disorders, are non-Arabic speakers, and refuse to participate in the study are excluded. Our data collected via an online self-administrated translated questionnaire survey was designed using a Google Forms questionnaire template. Results The study questionnaire was completed by 477 individuals in total. The mean age of the participants was 27.4±12.9 years, with ages ranging from 18 to over 60. A total of 190 individuals (39.8%) had prior knowledge of cosmetic procedures, and 338 (70.9%) were female. Of the non-surgical cosmetic treatments that people are most familiar with, 37.9% mentioned filler injections. Additionally, the most popular surgical cosmetic surgery was rhinoplasty (73.6%) and liposuction (22%). 85.7% of respondents said social media impacts people's decisions to undergo cosmetic treatments, while 86.8% of respondents said women do more cosmetic procedures than males. Of the participants, only 40 (8.4%) had previous cosmetic procedure done before. Rhinoplasty was the most common undergone surgical treatment (15.4%). In terms of non-surgical treatments, hair removal accounted for the majority (51.3%). Conclusion This study revealed that 39.4% of the study population, the majority of which are young individuals, females, and singles, have a good knowledge with regard to cosmetic procedures due to many factors such as culture diversity among generations, distribution of the social media, and interest differences. We conclude that the social media factor can significantly influence the practice of cosmetic procedures.

Prevalence and Determinants of Plastic Surgery Among Adults in Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

Social and cultural factors have a significant impact on body image standards, and the media's messages play a crucial role in shaping beauty ideals. People's perceptions of beauty can be negatively affected by social media, which promotes unrealistic beauty standards and can lead to a desire for plastic surgery. Plastic surgery includes both reconstructive and aesthetic procedures and has become increasingly popular worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, there has been a significant increase in the number of women seeking cosmetic surgery, particularly breast augmentation, rhinoplasty, and liposuction, indicating that cosmetic surgery is becoming more accepted as a way to enhance beauty.

AIMS

To investigate the frequency of performance of plastic and aesthetic surgical procedures among adults aged 18 to 60 years old in Saudi Arabia, as well as the determinants that may contribute to it.

METHODOLOGY

A cross-sectional web survey with a representative sample (n = 3238) of individuals in Saudi Arabia was carried out from 10 April 2023 to 28 October 2023.

RESULTS

The study included a cohort of 3238 participants, with 1328 individuals choosing to undergo plastic surgery. Among the surgical subgroups, the predominant procedure of choice was breast augmentation, representing 1009 cases (31.2%), while a minority opted for alternative plastic surgical interventions. Notably, the primary impetus behind plastic surgery, as indicated by the majority of participants (38.4% of the overall 41% who underwent the procedure), was appearance enhancement. Examination of the participants' demographic profile revealed a predominance of women between the ages of 18 and 30, married individuals, predominantly having a primary level of education, with a subset working in the public sector. Furthermore, a considerable segment of participants (32.6%) indicated low income, while 31.8% fell into the category of obesity.

CONCLUSION

To address the multifaceted nature of plastic surgery decisions in Saudi Arabia, the key focus should be on promoting cultural acceptance, creating a supportive environment, and establishing ethical guidelines. This entails conducting awareness campaigns, promoting inclusive beauty standards, facilitating community discussions, fostering collaboration with support organizations, integrating mental health services, and ensuring rigorous monitoring of safety and professionalism in plastic surgery practices. By implementing these recommendations, individuals seeking plastic surgery can enhance their overall well-being and satisfaction.

Acceptance of Young Saudi Women to Undergo Cosmetic Surgery and Factors Influencing Their Decision

Background

The cosmetic procedure is a treatment modality for improving the appearance of a person, and it may involve either surgical or nonsurgical interventions. The number of women who undergo cosmetic surgery in Saudi Arabia has increased dramatically. In fact, the reasons for the increase in the number of cosmetic procedures include the growth impact of social media and the pursuit of perfection. The study aimed to determine the level of acceptance of cosmetic surgery among young Saudi women, and the factors influencing their decisions.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among literate Saudi women during March 2023 to April 2023. A self-reported questionnaire was used, which investigated the demographics, acceptance, and information about cosmetic surgery and social media.

Results

A total of 1685 female participants were included in this study: 62.6% were students, 73.6% were single, and 65.8% were aged 18-23 years. The levels of acceptance were high among 38.9% of the participants, and the level of acceptance was significantly affected by age (P = 0.0001), social status (P = 0.0001), work (P = 0.0001), education (P = 0.001), and income (P = 0.001). Up to 86.1% of the participants had not undergone cosmetic surgery, and the reasons for undergoing surgery commonly included dissatisfaction with appearance and social media.

Conclusions

The acceptance of cosmetic surgery in this study was low, and it was affected by several demographics of the participants. For instance, social media played a crucial role in driving women to undergo such procedures.

Nationwide Study: Public Adults' Perception of Cosmetic Surgery in Saudi Arabia

Background

Knowing what influences people to pursue cosmetic surgery can aid current and aspiring cosmetic surgeons as they develop their techniques and enhance their market practice. This study aimed to evaluate Saudi adults' perceptions of cosmetic surgery using the three subscales of the Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale, namely Social, Consider, and Intrapersonal.

Methods

This cross-sectional, nationwide study involved members of the public from all provinces of Saudi Arabia. The inclusion criteria were being a Saudi resident over 18 years old and consenting to participate; those who did not meet the criteria were excluded. The study was implemented between October 25 and December 16, 2022. The electronic survey was composed of a demographic characteristics section and a previously constructed questionnaire modified for Arabic speakers to assess the population's perceptions of cosmetic surgery. Statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS 22 statistical package.

Results

Of the 8006 Saudi adults who participated in the study, 5551 (69.3%) were women, and 2245 (30.7%) were men. We found that intrapersonal factors were the primary motivator, followed by factors addressed by the Consider and Social subscales. However, attitudes differed by gender, age, and other demographic characteristics: men and younger individuals (18-29) showed the lowest score for likelihood to pursue cosmetic surgery, whereas women and older individuals (40-50) ranked the highest on total scale scores. Overall, the Saudi adult population showed diminished perceptions of cosmetic surgery nationwide.

Conclusion

The results confirmed the authors' hypothesis that there is a diminished perception of cosmetic surgery among adults in Saudi Arabia.

Acceptance and Attitude Toward Cosmetic Surgeries in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Cosmetic surgery refers to any surgical intervention that alters normal bodily characteristics in order to attain a more appealing appearance as perceived by the patient. Data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) indicates a consistent rise in plastic surgery procedures over time. The objective of our research is to carry out a cross-sectional investigation to assess the perceptions and attitudes toward cosmetic surgery among individuals residing in the western region of Saudi Arabia. This study employed a descriptive, cross-sectional methodology. The intended sample includes residents of Makkah and Medina Regions who are 18 years of age or older, representing the general population. Data collection was carried out through an online questionnaire created using Google Forms, which was disseminated electronically via social media platforms. The questionnaire gathered demographic information and assessed participants' attitudes and acceptance towards cosmetic surgery. The study included a total of 1249 participants, with 1064 (85%) being female and 185 (15%) being male. In our sample, the overall acceptance rate for cosmetic surgery was 54.2%. There was a significant correlation between the acceptance level and factors such as gender, age, marital status, and occupational status (P value <0.001) for all the aforementioned factors. However, the level of education and financial status were not significantly associated. The majority of the participants in our study were accepting of cosmetic surgery. However, to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the acceptance of aesthetic surgery in Saudi Arabia, further research should be conducted across the country to assess the attitudes of the wider population.

The Health Impacts, Prevalence, and Acceptance Level of Cosmetics Interventions Among Females in Saudi Arabia

Background

With the rising global desire for beauty, cosmetic interventions have increased. Saudi Arabia ranked 29 among the top 30 fastest growing countries for cosmetic procedures.

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the prevalence, acceptance level, and health impacts of cosmetic interventions among females in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2022 to January 2023 among females living in Saudi Arabia. Participants' acceptance of cosmetic interventions was assessed using an Arabic version of the validated Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale. The data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire.

Results

The study included 3007 females living in Saudi Arabia. About 58% of the participants were aged 18 to 25, and 72.9% were single. The prevalence of cosmetic interventions among the participants was 10%. A higher prevalence was observed among participants over 25 years, married, high economic status, employed, postgraduate, and participants recognizing the necessity of cosmetic interventions (P < .001). High acceptance levels toward cosmetic interventions were observed among older, married, employed, and postgraduate respondents and those with high economic status (P < .001). Meanwhile, knowing the adverse events of cosmetic interventions was associated with a low level of acceptance with a P-value of <.001.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated a surprising prevalence of cosmetic interventions among females in Saudi Arabia. However, below-average acceptance of these interventions among the same population was reported. This could be a result of the surrounding culture that does not support or encourage undergoing cosmetic interventions. Further studies are recommended to assess the prevalence of those interventions using objective tools, such as medical records.

Level of Evidence 4

Psychometric properties of a Romanian translation of the Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale (ACSS): An examination using bifactor exploratory structural equation modelling

The Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale (ACSS; Henderson-King & Henderson-King, 2005) is a widely used measure for the assessment of attitudes toward cosmetic surgery. Here, we examined the psychometrics of a novel Romanian translation of the ACSS. A total of 1275 Romanian adults (889 women, 386 men) completed the ACSS alongside additional, related measures. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) with a first split-half subsample supported extraction of the original 3-factor model consisting of Intrapersonal, Social, and Consider dimensions. In a second split-half subsample, we found that a 3-factor bifactor exploratory structural equation model (B-ESEM) had superior fit compared to all alternative models that were tested. This B-ESEM representation had well-defined G-factor with adequate composite reliability, and its S-factors were also generally well-defined. Across subsamples, the optimal model showed strong or partial strong invariance across gender, with women having significantly higher latent means on the Consider factor relative to men. Evidence of convergent validity was also generally good in women, especially for the G-factor of the ACSS, but was attenuated in men. Overall, these findings indicate that the Romanian version of the ACSS has adequate psychometric properties. We also encourage scholars to consider B-ESEM representations of the ACSS in other national settings.

Local Community View of Aesthetic Surgery: Results of a Cross-Sectional Survey

Background Aesthetic surgery has increased in popularity, reflecting the increased consumer demand. However, the variation in patients' ethnic and cultural beliefs has led to many challenges. Therefore, those who manage aesthetics should always listen and recognize the variability of cultural identities, desires, attitudes, anxieties, and uncertainties of the patient. Emerging from a diversity of cultures and its transforming trends, the scope of cosmetic surgery and its practice reflect not only the individual's personality but also the culture as a whole. When counseling an individual, one has to recognize that even in groups of seemingly identical social or cultural standards, there are subtle differences in attitude. Aim To assess the perception of the local community about aesthetic procedures and to determine the possible factors influencing their level of acceptance through a randomized cross-sectional survey. Methodology A community-based, qualitative, cross-sectional study was performed through an anonymous questionnaire that was randomly distributed among the local population. Questions with regard to the sociodemographic data were implemented, as well as the core questions, to assess the perceptions that are based on the modified Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale (ACSS). Results A total of 857 participants responded to the study questionnaire. Their age ranged from 18 to more than 55 years, with a mean of 23.1 ± 12.9 years. Out of the total number, 630 (73.5%) were females while the remaining 227 (26.5%) were males. More than half of them were single (53.4%), and the remaining were married. Regarding perception, the highest score in percentage was for the interpersonal subscale (18.7 ± 7.9; 53.4%), followed by the consider subscale (18.2 7.2; 52%) and the social subscale (15.5 ± 7.9; 44.3%). The overall mean score was (52.4 ± 21.1; 49.9%). As for the procedure, the most intended was rhinoplasty (41.1%), followed by liposuction (32.9%), abdominoplasty (31.1%), face-lift (24.4%), reconstructive surgeries (24.4%), and lips filler (20.8%) while the least intended was gluteal flat grafting (8.7%). Conclusions Female patients are more eager to undergo cosmetic and aesthetic surgery compared to their male counterparts. Age did not have a major impact as a motive to look for cosmetic surgery.

An Analysis of Aesthetic Concerns Identified by Video Conferencing

Background During and after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there was a significant increase in the demand for aesthetic procedures nationwide. We believe that one of the factors contributing to this increase was the use of video conferencing apps. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze the aesthetic concerns that were identified by video conferencing. Methodology In Saudi Arabia, an observational, cross-sectional study was conducted from February to April, 2022. An online survey was used to assess the aesthetic concerns raised by video conferencing. The survey addressed multiple aspects, including demographic data, information on video call utilization, the attentional focus of the participants during video calls, and new appearance concerns identified on video calls. Results The survey successfully captured 432 adult participants. More than 85% of participants disliked at least one character of their appearance during video conferencing. The skin color type (based on the Fitzpatrick scale), time spent on video calls, and visual focus during the virtual meeting were significantly correlated with self-perception of new disliked features. Conclusion Video conferencing showed a significant statistical correlation with identified disliked facial/body features in both genders. People with skin color type III were less likely to perceive a disliked feature through video conferencing applications. The likelihood of having a disliked feature was significantly higher among individuals who spent up to one hour per day using video calls. Additionally, those who mainly paid attention to their face or body during virtual meetings were more likely to have disliked features.

Dermatology workforce over a decade in Saudi Arabia: demographics, distributions, and future challenges

BACKGROUND

The dermatology workforce is an important topic, as many countries are facing an undersupply of dermatologists, while some are expecting a surplus. Therefore, we conducted this study to identify the current dermatology workforce demographics in Saudi Arabia (SA) and the changes in such demographics over the last 10 years to identify future workforce-related challenges.

METHODS

This study was conducted in SA, and it included all the practicing dermatologists in the country over the last decade (2010-2020). The number of practicing dermatologists, their gender, their nationality, and dermatology residency candidates and graduates were obtained from the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). The geographic distribution of dermatologists was obtained from the Ministry of Health Statistical Yearbook 2018.

RESULTS

As of September 2020, there were 2678 practicing dermatologists in SA at a ratio of 7.82 dermatologists per 100 000 people. Of the 2678 dermatologists, only 24.8% were Saudis. The Saudi dermatologist ratio has been almost constant over 10 years, ranging from 1.3 to 1.9 per 100 000 people. Of all Saudi dermatologists, 42% were female. The number of residents who graduated from the residency program was not consistent for each year and ranged from 4 to 25. The number of dermatologists varied by region, with 9.2 in Riyadh and 3.4 in Najran per 100 000 people.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study revealed that a quarter of dermatologists in SA are Saudis. In addition, the number of non-Saudi dermatologists has increased in the last 10 years, while the number of Saudi dermatologists to the population has remained almost constant. There is also a geographic maldistribution of dermatologists, with urban areas having a higher number of dermatologists than rural areas. We encourage local studies that can elucidate the factors influencing the workforce, such as the dermatologist appointment waiting time, dermatologists' working hours, and the geographic maldistribution of dermatologists in the country.

Perception of Cosmetic Procedures among Middle Eastern Youth

BACKGROUND

In the past decade, there has been an increase in the number of cosmetic procedures performed globally. About one-third of individuals who undergo cosmetic procedures are under the age of 35. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become a regional hub for cosmetic procedures. This cross-sectional study examines the perception of cosmetic procedures among youth in the UAE.

METHODS

A 63-question survey was electronically disseminated to university students to identify factors associated with the use of cosmetic procedures in this population.

RESULTS

Ninety-one percent of the 178 participants were female, and 58 percent of them were aged 19 to 21. The majority of the participants felt cosmetic procedures are gaining acceptance in UAE society. Nearly 70 percent of participants felt that a legal and regulatory framework was important to determine the permissible age for undergoing cosmetic surgeries.

LIMITATIONS

One limitation of the study lies in a modest response rate of 35.6 percent. There was a small number of male responders, and the assessment of differences between sex was not easy to conduct.

CONCLUSION

Cosmetic procedures are increasingly being accepted among youth in the Middle East, with skin and nasal procedures being the most popular. The youth's concept of ideal body shape is in alignment with the Western ideas of beauty. Future research could characterize these perceptions in other cultures and explore differences in what is perceived to be beautiful in various parts of the world.

Perception of Cosmetic Procedures among Saudis during COVID-19 Pandemic

Background:

A novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) was first reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. The fast spread of the virus has led to a significant reduction in the numbers of elective procedures especially cosmetic interventions. Although many measures have been carried out to offload the health care system, it is unclear whether these changes had an effect on general population perception toward undergoing cosmetic procedures. The aim of this study was to assess the perception of Saudis toward undergoing a cosmetic surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method:

An online survey consisting of two parts was used, with a series of questions about cosmetic procedures, in general, and cosmetic procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular. The survey included Saudis (age 18 to 60 years) with access to social media.

Results:

A total of 563 respondents participated in this survey. The vast majority were women (86.9%) and were between 18 and 24 years old (38.7%). Some 27.4% considered a cosmetic procedure during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, only 11.9% underwent any. In the majority of the participants (86%), the pandemic did not change their minds about having a cosmetic procedure. About 49.7% agreed that fear of contracting the virus would be a factor for not undergoing a cosmetic procedure during the pandemic.

Conclusions:

Clear differences in the engagement and perception of cosmetic procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic exist among Saudis. More studies are needed to explore the effects of pandemics on aesthetic practice and to find ways to perform elective procedures in a safe way.

Demographic and Cultural Differences in the Acceptance and Pursuit of Cosmetic Surgery: A Systematic Literature Review

Worldwide, the numbers of cosmetic procedures continue to climb. However, cosmetic surgery (CS) continues to be plagued by negative stigmatization. This study reviews the literature to identify how attitudes toward CS vary by sex, age, race, culture, and nationality, and aims to determine how other factors like media exposure interact with demographics to influence how well CS is accepted.

METHODS

A PRISMA-guided systematic review of the literature was conducted to identify all English-language papers reporting on CS or plastic surgery acceptance, attitudes, or stigmatization, specifically examining for data on age, sex, race/ethnicity, culture, and media influence.

RESULTS

In total, 1515 abstracts were reviewed, of which 94 were deemed pertinent enough to warrant a full-text review. Among the potential demographic predictors of CS acceptance, the one with the most supportive data is sex, with women comprising roughly 90% of all CS patients in virtually all populations studied and consistently exhibiting greater CS knowledge and acceptance. Culturally, the pursuit of beauty through CS is a universal phenomenon, although different countries, races, and cultures differ in how willingly CS is embraced, and in the aesthetic goals of those choosing to have it. In countries with culturally diverse societies like the United States, non-Hispanic Whites continue to predominate among CS patients, but the number of CS patients of other races is rising disproportionately. In this trend, social media is playing a major role.

CONCLUSION

Healthcare practitioners performing cosmetic procedures need to consider demographic and cultural differences of the patients in order to enhance their understanding of their patients' aesthetic goals and expectations.

Cosmetic surgeries and procedures among youth in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study of undergraduate university students in the Eastern Province

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

To assess the attitudes and acceptance of cosmetic surgeries and procedures among undergraduate university students in the Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia, as well as the barriers against having cosmetic surgeries and procedures.

STUDY DESIGN

A cross-sectional study of undergraduate university students in the Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia, during October 2020. The research instrument included the Attitudes towards Cosmetic Surgery Scale (ACSS), sociodemographic data and perceived barriers towards cosmetic surgeries and procedures. A bivariate analysis was performed followed by a linear regression to account for confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 1240 students participated in the study. The mean ACSS for cosmetic surgeries was 3.14 (±1.37 SD), and 3.25 (±1.49 SD) for cosmetic procedures. Older students, students with a history of previous cosmetic surgeries/procedures, and students with engineering specialties had more acceptance scores in both cosmetic surgeries and procedures. On the other hand, men, students belonging to a middle family income and students who perceived themselves to be aware of the risk associated with cosmetic surgeries/procedures had less acceptance scores. The most reported barrier to have cosmetic surgeries and procedures among students was feeling that they do not need it.

CONCLUSION

The findings from the current study could help dermatologists, plastic surgeons and adolescent specialists wishing to recognise the rising interest in cosmetic surgeries and procedures in Arabic youth populations, the possible associated factors, as well as the barriers to have these surgeries and procedures. A further qualitative in-depth study to explore the acceptance is suggested.

The Public's Awareness and Willingness to Undergo Plastic Surgery Procedures during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background:

In March 2020, the Saudi Ministry of Health implemented mitigation measures to control the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, including media campaigns, a nationwide lockdown, and closures of plastic surgery clinics. The aim of this study was to explore the public’s knowledge of COVID-19, their willingness to undergo cosmetic surgery during the pandemic, and the factors influencing their decisions.

Methods:

An internet-based cross-sectional survey was conducted. We collected data on demographic information, knowledge about COVID-19, and willingness to undergo cosmetic procedures. Participants also completed the cosmetic procedure screening questionnaire to assess body dysmorphic disorder.

Results:

The sample included a total of 1643 participants (women, n = 1002; 61%). A total of 613 (37.3%) participants were aged between 30 and 40 years. The majority (n = 1472; 89.6%) referred to official government accounts for information regarding COVID-19. Most participants (n = 1451; 88.3%) felt that the pandemic was serious, and 1387 (85%) said they would not leave home to undergo cosmetic procedures during the outbreak. Being women, the presence of body-image concerns, and higher cosmetic procedure screening questionnaire scores were associated with an increased willingness to undergo cosmetic procedures.

Conclusions:

This is the first study to explore the public’s willingness to undergo cosmetic procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic. The public was well educated about the pandemic, via government actions. This was reflected in participants who wished to undergo a cosmetic plastic procedure; we identified factors associated with an increased willingness to undergo procedures, which may help design awareness initiatives.