According to London-based plastic and aesthetic surgeon Dr Raj Raghuvanshi, plastic surgery popular in the beauty industry is both a boon and a curse for people.

During a session at the 2024 India Today Conclave, an expert who has performed procedures on celebrities across the world spoke about how plastic or cosmetic surgery, if done correctly, can help boost a person’s confidence and self-esteem.

Dr. Raguvansi said, “Plastic surgery is a broad term that includes both reconstruction and cosmetic surgery. Reconstruction is important in terms of bone structure and injury, but cosmetic surgery is desirable. It takes into account the personality of the patient.”

She said although plastic surgery has become a popular option for those who aspire to be like celebrities such as Zendaya, Kim Kardashian or Bella Hadid, the vast majority of people don’t need it.

The expert said, “I turn down 2-3 out of 5 people because their expectations are unrealistic. I ask them to do their homework first and my ability to meet their expectations may not be realistic.”

Dr. Raguvansi, who is known for his “mommy makeovers”, explained how beneficial it is for women to regain their shape and form after childbirth. It is a makeover that involves breast implants, lifting lost volume, loosening loose skin and improving the hip to waist ratio.

The expert spoke about the role of social media, saying that it is the biggest platform and mediator for plastic surgery.

“It’s the biggest platform for plastic surgery, but it also creates unrealistic expectations. People often want to look like others, which isn’t always possible or healthy. True beauty comes from confidence and self-care, not just surgery,” said Dr. Raguvanshi.

Talking about the ethical aspect of plastic surgery, he said, “I treat every patient the same, whether they are a celebrity or a common man. I reject 2-3 out of every 5 patients because their expectations are not realistic. It is important for them to do their homework and make sure they are choosing surgery for the right reasons.”

When asked about Kareena Kapoor’s stance of not getting Botox, Dr. Raghuvanshi described her as “the epitome of ideal beauty with scientifically perfect proportions.” Cosmetic surgery, when done correctly, is a blend of art and science, but some people, like Kareena, naturally meet those ideals without intervention.