Abstract
The “face genius look” (hereafter FGL), which is a compilation of different procedures including but not limited to rounded eyes, a V-shaped jawline, and a high nose bridge, aspires to give patients perfect ratios and a harmonious countenance. While the wider cultural view in South Korea embraces FGL, this study seeks to examine how healthcare practitioners at cosmetic surgery clinics in South Korea perceive the cultural and economic value of attaining the highly sought-after FGL. Healthcare practitioners from five cosmetic surgery clinics across Gangnam were asked to respond to a series of questions to elicit viewpoints on the cultural and economic value of FGL procedures. Those responses were organized into codes, from which this research used to discern patterns. Ultimately, the study identified several patterns suggesting that most healthcare professionals appreciated the concept of FGL, acknowledged the economic motivations for having these cosmetic surgeries, and took measures to support the mental well-being of their patients. However, the loss of the uniqueness of Korean facial features precipitated by the surgeries and mounting ethical concerns over long-term effects, as well as catering to younger patients, greatly diminished the value of FGL.
Presenters
Abby KimStudent, Cultural Anthropology, Independent Researcher, California, United States Victoria Wiet
Assistant Professor, English, DePauw University, Indiana, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Social and Cultural Perspectives on Aging
KEYWORDS
Behavioral and Social Science, Cultural Anthropology, Face Genius Look, Healthcare
