6岁割双眼皮，7岁打美容针：整容成日本小朋友必修课？

Core Viewpoint - The trend of cosmetic surgery among children in Japan is on the rise, driven by external pressures and beauty anxiety, transforming cosmetic procedures from an adult choice to a starting point for some children [1][2][3] Group 1: Trends in Cosmetic Surgery - The trend of younger individuals seeking cosmetic surgery has significantly increased over the past decade, with a notable rise in visits from elementary and middle school students post-2020 pandemic [2] - Approximately 25% of those undergoing surgery had their first procedure in their teenage years, with some as young as 6 or 7 years old [2] - Common procedures include double eyelid surgery, hair removal, and skin treatments, with some children undergoing regular beauty treatments costing around 10,000 yen [2] Group 2: Motivations Behind Surgery - Many children pursue cosmetic surgery due to external pressures and self-esteem issues, often stemming from bullying or negative comments about their appearance [3][4] - The COVID-19 pandemic provided a cover for recovery periods post-surgery, allowing children to express their beauty concerns more openly to their parents [4] Group 3: Parental Influence - Parents play a crucial role in the decision-making process, often initiating consultations out of concern for their child's social future [4] - Many parents believe that cosmetic surgery can prevent future issues related to appearance, leading them to take their children for procedures [4] Group 4: Societal Attitudes - Japanese society exhibits polarized views on the issue of cosmetic surgery for minors, with some supporting it as a means to alleviate beauty anxiety and boost confidence [5][6] - Conversely, there are strong concerns regarding the necessity and potential health risks of early cosmetic procedures, with critics arguing that the industry exploits children's vulnerabilities [8][9] Group 5: Impact of Social Media - The rise of social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube has contributed to the normalization of cosmetic surgery among youth, with influencers sharing their experiences and reducing psychological barriers [13][14] - The prevalence of beauty standards promoted on social media exacerbates beauty anxiety, leading children to believe that certain physical traits are essential for attractiveness [14] Group 6: Broader Implications - The phenomenon of young children seeking cosmetic surgery reflects a complex interplay of family anxiety, peer pressure, and societal beauty standards [16] - While cosmetic surgery may provide temporary relief from beauty-related concerns, it raises questions about the long-term impact on children's self-identity and mental health [16][17]