The growing demand for cosmetic services and plastic surgery has become a global phenomenon influenced by economic, social, and cultural factors. This systematic review aims to identify and analyze the key determinants influencing individuals’ decisions to undergo cosmetic interventions. This study was conducted following Preferredd Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A systematic search was conducted in major databases, including PubMed, ProQuest, Science Direct, and Magiran, using relevant Persian and English keywords between 2000 and August 30, 2023. Review articles, clinical studies, non-health system-related papers, and inaccessible texts were excluded. Depending on the study design, data were analyzed using either qualitative or quantitative content analysis, with discrepancies resolved through expert review. Out of 316 identified studies, 18 (12 in English and 6 in Persian) met the inclusion criteria. The most common cosmetic procedures included rhinoplasty, liposuction, blepharoplasty, Botox injections, and laser hair removal. The key determinants influencing individuals’ decisions to undergo cosmetic interventions were categorized into three main groups: Socioeconomic Factors, Body Image Management and Psychological Traits and Cultural Influences, and Social Acceptance and Religious Beliefs. Understanding the factors influencing cosmetic surgery trends is essential for health policymakers, psychologists, and cosmetic professionals to develop effective interventions promoting mental well-being, increasing public awareness, and mitigating unrealistic expectations. Implementing pre-surgical mental health screenings and promoting realistic beauty standards may mitigate the potential negative consequences of the increasing demand for cosmetic procedures. Culturally sensitive strategies can also help redefine beauty standards and encourage the responsible use of cosmetic services.
Adel et al. (2026) studied this question.