Cosmetic surgeries around the world are witnessing a growing demand. They have shifted from being highly delicate medical operations to something resembling a “salon session,” easily accessible through clinics and often completed in record time—sometimes even during a work break. Social media platforms promote these procedures, often with misleading claims. Recently, the UAE Federal Supreme Court established a new legal precedent regarding the responsibility of cosmetic surgeons, affirming that they are obliged to achieve the desired result, not merely to exercise due diligence—unlike what is common in other medical specialties.
The case reviewed by the court involved the death of a patient during a “slimming surgery,” in which the doctor deviated from recognized medical standards. This highlighted the serious risks associated with cosmetic procedures that are not aimed at saving lives but rather improving appearance. In such cases, the surgeon’s obligation becomes doubled, as it is unacceptable to expose the patient to risks that outweigh the expected benefits—even if the patient signs consent forms, waivers, or disclaimers.
The danger extends beyond medical practice to social culture itself. Cosmetic procedures have become normalized among young women, and even men, with some undergoing them at ages as early as 18. This trend reflects the influence of misleading advertisements and influencers who promote ideals of beauty through attractive offers and discounts, sometimes even presenting such procedures as entertainment content. I call them the “kings of distortion.” I have previously recommended banning cosmetic procedures for girls under 21 to help curb this phenomenon.
In addition, the court ruling points to the development of new legislation to reduce cosmetic surgery errors, requiring clinics to adopt higher safety standards and prohibiting unnecessary or purely aesthetic procedures. Long-term healthy alternatives, such as weight-loss and fitness programs lasting from one to three years, should be promoted instead of relying on quick fixes that carry high risks.
In the end, cosmetic surgery is not merely a personal matter—it is a health, social, and legal issue that requires public awareness and strict regulations so that it does not become a silent threat to both individual lives and the stability of society.
