Oz reality show pits brides against each other for plastic surgery makeover

SYDNEY - A new reality TV show has come up in Australia that pits brides against each other in a series of wedding-themed challenges for the chance to win extensive cosmetic surgery.

‘Bridalplasty’ offers extreme plastic surgery makeover for the big day to the winner, and in one scene, brides frantically compete to win the opportunity to have a syringe plunged into their faces to correct perceived flaws.

Twelve brides-to-be compete in a series of competitions throughout the show, in a bid to win their dream wedding and as many plastic surgery procedures as possible.

But experts have warned such glorification of extreme surgery procedures could contribute to significant mental health problems among vulnerable viewers.

Dr Mark Hanikeri, of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, cautioned anyone considering a procedure that surgery should not be entered into lightly.

“I always stress that surgical procedures are often a significant life event and are not without risk,” the Sydney Morning Herald quoted him as saying.

“They must weigh up the risk against the potential benefit, particularly in the context of the time for recovery before the event.

“People should be informed that surgical procedures are for life and not for one day,” he stated.

Professor David Forbes of the School of Paediatrics and Child Health at the University of Western Australia, who consults with the WA government on issues surrounding the media and body image, said vulnerable people watching the show could get the wrong message.

“The pursuit of bodily perfection is an unrealistic dream and none of us are ever perfect, and if a few of us approach it they don’t remain perfect,” he said.

“What is more important is the pursuit of accepting yourself and satisfaction with who you are.

“That disturbance in body image and dissatisfaction with body image is extremely harmful to young people and their successful relationships and achieving their life’s goals,” he added.

He said while most people would watch the program and experience no harmful effect, vulnerable people may come to believe that by altering their appearance they could create opportunities for themselves. (ANI)