The Catholic Church's stance on cosmetic surgery

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I would like to know the catholic churche's stance on cosmetic surgery, thanks a lot

-Josh N

-- Josh N (jnesbitt@mb.symatico.ca), January 19, 1999

Answers

Response to The catholic churche's stance on cosmetic surgery

The Church has no specific stand. It would fall into Moral Theology, Is there an abnormal obcession with physical appearence? It's necessity ? Could the money have been used for the poor? Etc.

-- Br. Rich S.F.O. (REPSFO@Prodigy.net), January 21, 1999.

Response to The catholic churche's stance on cosmetic surgery

There are instances where cosmetic surgery is necessary - especially where it affects one's self esteem tremendously. We do not live in a kind world. Such as severe acne, cleft lip, port-wine-stain, hemangiomas, and many other congenital defects.

Studies have shown that acne plagued people have a much greater chance of suffering from severe depression and low self esteem. I imagine that many do overcome their scars and excel, but to me, and most insurance company - acne treatment is not cosmetic.

Many insurance companies also look the same with port wine stain, hemangioma, and cleft lip and palate. Unfortunately many argue that these treatment are "cosmetic". The indirect cost to society from the treatment of depression and mental illness arising from these conditions could exceed that of the cost during the medical therapy during childhood - therefore - we need to separate these from the rest.

As for facelifts, laser resurfacing, hair transplants, liposuction, breast enlargement - I have a more difficult time rationalizing their uses. I doubt that cosmetic surgery alone will save a marriage or to find one a perfect partner. But perhaps in a few circumstances, they might improve one's self esteem to the point where they feel more confident. But I can not be the judge here.

-- abc (derm@pol.com), January 25, 1999.


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