It has been believed that cosmetics have originated in the Middle Eastern countries. Among Arab women, there is growing openness to cosmetic surgery. Some Arab women, specially wealthy ones, believe in cosmetic surgery as a way to restore or elevate beauty. According to BBC News, more and more affluent Iranians are choosing for plastic surgery. Many Arab women go through anti-aging treatments such as chemical peels and restylane. Other procedures that Arab women undergo include rhinoplasty, breast implants and liposuction.

A survey has revealed that over 37% of Arab girls between the ages of 15 and 17 would consider cosmetic surgery in the near future, a figure that unveils a generational shift in the way Arab women perceive beauty.

Many middle eastern countries have emerged as a hub for cosmetic surgery. Since the 1979 Revolution, Iran has  become one of the world’s leading centers for cosmetic surgery. In Tehran, there are more than 3000 plastic surgeons.

Arab women in Lebanon are undergoing cosmetic surgery as they wish to look like their on-screen idols. Many Arab women are undertaking this surgery to look like the celebrities they admire. Cosmetic surgery is becoming a status symbol in some Middle Eastern countries. Research suggests that nine out of ten Arab females revealed they are unhappy with their physical appearance and more than 63% of Arab women feel threatened by beauty ideals portrayed in the media. These are the key reasons why more and more Arab women undergo cosmetic surgery.

In 2000, the gold rush in cosmetic surgery began in Lebanon which then became the destination for ‘cosmetic surgery tourism’ in the Middle East. Many Arab Women have been coming in droves to fix their lips or noses in Lebanon.