Abby Wu's journey into cosmetic surgery began at just 14 after a rapid weight gain due to hormone treatment. Being labeled as "fat" by a teacher led her mother to take her for liposuction, sparking a personal overhaul that has had her under the knife more than a hundred times since then. Now, at 35, Abby co-owns a beauty clinic in Beijing, becoming an influencer in a booming market fueled by rising disposable incomes and shifting social media norms.
With many young Chinese women seeking procedures to fit changing beauty standards, Abby's extensive surgeries, which have cost her around half a million dollars, reflect a surging cosmetic culture. While features like double eyelids and sculpted jawlines remain popular, troubling trends include procedures aimed at creating almost childlike looks.
Cosmetic surgery apps that promise perfection have gained traction among consumers, but they also contribute to unrealistic beauty ideals. Abby has shared her journey widely on social media, yet even after numerous enhancements, she still receives recommendations for surgeries on these apps, revealing the industry's insatiable nature.
However, not everything is as glamorous. The prevalence of unlicensed clinics has resulted in a troubling number of botched surgeries. Many individuals, like 28-year-old Yue Yue, have faced dire consequences from poorly executed procedures. Furthermore, a rise in deceptive job offers linking employment to work done in cosmetic clinics has caused financial strains on victims forced to take out loans for surgeries.
Despite the challenges, Abby expresses no regrets and continues pursuing beauty, reflecting both the allure and harsh realities of cosmetic surgery in China today. She aims to continue her journey of transformation, underscoring the societal pressures that many young women in China face regarding their appearance.
With many young Chinese women seeking procedures to fit changing beauty standards, Abby's extensive surgeries, which have cost her around half a million dollars, reflect a surging cosmetic culture. While features like double eyelids and sculpted jawlines remain popular, troubling trends include procedures aimed at creating almost childlike looks.
Cosmetic surgery apps that promise perfection have gained traction among consumers, but they also contribute to unrealistic beauty ideals. Abby has shared her journey widely on social media, yet even after numerous enhancements, she still receives recommendations for surgeries on these apps, revealing the industry's insatiable nature.
However, not everything is as glamorous. The prevalence of unlicensed clinics has resulted in a troubling number of botched surgeries. Many individuals, like 28-year-old Yue Yue, have faced dire consequences from poorly executed procedures. Furthermore, a rise in deceptive job offers linking employment to work done in cosmetic clinics has caused financial strains on victims forced to take out loans for surgeries.
Despite the challenges, Abby expresses no regrets and continues pursuing beauty, reflecting both the allure and harsh realities of cosmetic surgery in China today. She aims to continue her journey of transformation, underscoring the societal pressures that many young women in China face regarding their appearance.
