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]

Core Insights - Japan's medical beauty market has surpassed 600 billion yen (approximately 30.2 billion RMB), exceeding that of South Korea, which is known as a "cosmetic surgery powerhouse" [1][3] - The market is expected to continue growing, driven by advancements in medical technology and changing social attitudes towards cosmetic procedures [3][4] Market Size and Growth - The Japanese medical beauty market was valued at 486 billion yen in 2021, representing a 120% increase from the previous year [3] - In 2023, the market is projected to reach 594 billion yen, marking a growth of 108.8% compared to 2022 [3] - From 2009 to 2023, the market has expanded 2.39 times, indicating robust growth [3] Consumer Behavior and Trends - Approximately 70% of surveyed individuals aged 15 to 49 express concern about their appearance, with 43% considering some form of cosmetic medical treatment [4] - The rise of social media has contributed to a more open attitude towards cosmetic procedures, with many celebrities and influencers openly discussing their experiences [3][4] - Non-surgical treatments, such as laser therapy and hyaluronic acid injections, are particularly popular among consumers [4] Demographic Insights - Male consumers are increasingly participating in cosmetic procedures, with treatments like beard removal gaining popularity for their time-saving benefits [4]