People undergo plastic surgery to have physical changes of the face and body. In so doing many feel somewhat guilty and wonder if they are simply being vain. But the definition of vanity is quite different. Vanity is defined as having excessive pride in oneself and their appearance. Conversely almost everyone that I see in a plastic surgery consultation is the opposite…they are embarrassed and even suffer low self-esteem for their perceived physical concerns. Whether it is from how one was born and developed or from the effects of injury, pregnancy or aging, patients seek plastic surgery to feel better about themselves. That is quite different than ‘excessive pride in one’s appearance’. Most people undergo plastic surgery because of actual physical flaws that affect their self-image…that should never be confused with vanity.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis Indiana