قشر بندي اجتماعي و اصلاح بدن جراحي زيبايي به مثابه نماد پايگاه اجتماعي

Social Stratification and Physical improvements Plastic Surgery as a Symbol for Social Class

Consumption that is focused on physical appearance in contemporary societies have caused some new demeanor like having plastic surgeries and have become prevalent and well-known among people. This research attempts to investigate the widespread plastic surgeries that have become an indictor of consumption trends. As very little has been done to explore this subject and the massive occurrence of these surgeries in Iran, this study has been conducted to identify plastic surgeries done in the city of Esfahan and the sociological factors affecting these occurrences. Attempts were made to link concepts such as body, beauty, consumption, lifestyle, social class and parts operated as symbols and indicators to be questioned. 140 people with no deficiency or medical problem were asked to have a plastic surgery within the two-month period of the research. Questionnaires were answered by the participants for the collection of data and information. The research findings revealed that the majority of people taking the surgery were unmarried women who belonged to middle and low classes having higher physical management capabilities. According to the research conductor and results, it could be said that: First, plastic surgery as a dignifying act is not only confined to just the upper social classes but also has become widespread among lower social strata. Second, the fact that the majority of plastic surgery applicants are among lower classes of the society indicates the significance of beauty in obtaining better social conditions and gaining more respect in the society. Third, conducts related to physical beauty and attraction as part of a lifestyle may cause distinction among people who belong to the same social class.