When you think of Gaza, “plastic surgery” isn’t necessarily the first thing that comes to mind. However, recently there’s been a dramatic increase in the number of plastic surgery procedures performed in the region.
With the conservative nature of the society, it’s difficult to pin down hard numbers on how popular cosmetic surgery is becoming, but some plastic surgeons have reported roughly a 300 percent increase in business.
Currently, Gaza is home to some 1.8 million people. With the unemployment rate hovering near 50 percent, it’s slightly surprising that so many individuals would have the money for elective surgery. So what’s accounting for the growing plastic surgery trend in Gaza? The answer may not be what you expect.
Since 2008, Israel and Hamas have been waging war in the region, and many of the plastic surgeries being performed are to correct injuries or other disfigurements sustained during the ongoing conflict. A number of patients, both male and female, are paying for cosmetic surgeries to remove or diminish scars caused by bullets, burns and bombs. While these types of reparative procedures account for a large portion of the plastic surgery done in Gaza, there are also a large number of traditional procedures being performed.
Patients still request some of the more traditional cosmetic procedures, including Botox injections, breast augmentations, liposuction and nose jobs. And don’t think for a second that it’s just women getting these procedures done. There are a number of men seeking cosmetic surgery as well.
While the proliferation of plastic surgery may point to a progressive push within in the culture, elements of the conservative society can be seen in the way in which doctors go about conducting their business.
Many doctors won’t operate on women without making sure that their husbands are aware of the pending surgical procedure. Also, a number of doctors refuse to carry out any procedures that go against traditional religious practices. Given the recent popularity of plastic surgery in the region though, it doesn’t seem that these types of issues present too much of a hurdle for women and men seeking to receive elective surgery.
Ultimately, the plastic surgery craze in Gaza is indicative of a universal human nature. Regardless of how liberal or conservative a culture is, everyone wants to feel attractive. In that respect, the recent increase in cosmetic surgeries in Gaza shouldn’t come as a surprise at all.
If you or someone you know would like to learn more about plastic surgery, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!
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