on Jun 15th, 2006Theomania aka Cosmetic Surgery For Believers
Ever heard of this word, theomania? By definition, it’s “the belief that one is God or specially chosen by God on a mission.” Given the current generation’s penchant for cosmetic and plastic surgery, you would think every Baby Boomer alive is channeling god’s vibe as if he or she were the big man (or woman) him or herself.
Call it the mirror reflection hypothesis. Whenever a Baby Boomer looks in the mirror, they see two images: the one residing in their memory of their younger self and the one confronting them in the mirror. Unhappy with the real image, they set out to bring it more in line with the image in their memory.
And that, my friends, is the basis for a new religion. Forget God (big G), bring on the little g god that speaks in hushed tones and commands thee to do god’s will by transforming one’s body and likeness into the image of a godforsaken ego.
Lasers and other devices that claim to firm and smooth aging skin are among the fastest-growing cosmetic procedures. But increasingly, doctors who have used the equipment question its effectiveness and criticize aggressive promotions by manufacturers, laser centers and medical spas.
Skin-tightening treatments like Thermage and Titan, or regimens such as VelaSmooth and Endermologie, which are supposed to reduce cellulite, are hotly marketed by clinics. Web sites tout before-and-after images that show dramatic improvements in flabby chins, dimpled thighs and sagging tummies. And baby boomers are plunking down hundreds, and often thousands, of dollars for these nonsurgical “face lifts,” “body lifts” and cellulite reductions.
Doctors Question Therapies For Sagging Skin
Efficacy of Laser Treatments Stirs Debate in Medical Field;
Does Swelling Hide Cellulite?
By RHONDA L. RUNDLE
Wall Street Journal, June 15, 2006; Page D1