The popularity of social media has grown exponentially over the years. Various apps such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and more have millions of users who engage on the apps daily. While social media is mainly regarded for its joyously infectious content, it can also serve as an educational hub of information.
With the growth of the types of content posted on social media, people are beginning to capitalize on this opportunity. Many are taking to social media and posting videos on a variety of topics; a main one being gym content. Both male and female influencers are creating social media platforms and personal brands, sharing their own fitness journey and providing tips for their followers to be successful in the gym.
Though plenty of influencers are transparent about their gym journey, unfortunately, this is not always the case. Overtime a few female content creators who focus on physical fitness have been exposed for receiving plastic surgery. These allegations consist of influencers who have gotten Brazilian butt lifts (BBL) and liposuction. This has caused people to question the transparency of influencers and the validity of their content.
Plastic Surgery and Its Perceived Advantages
There may be misconceptions about what a Brazilian butt lift is or how the surgery is performed. A Brazilian butt lift does not consist of implants or even a lift. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a Brazilian butt lift is a
two-step procedure start[ing] with liposuction of a different area, often the abdomen, the flanks, the thighs or back… and the fat removed from these areas is then injected into the hips and buttocks to improve share and projection.
There are multiple perceived benefits as to why female gym influencers get Brazilian butt lifts. One reason is that it gives quick results. While working out in the gym, bread results, these results can take some time for progress to show. However, for influencers who desire instantaneous results, BBL’s have been crowned the go-to solution.
Prior to undergoing Brazilian butt lift surgery, many female gym influencers speak out about their lack of self-confidence. Whether it was a battle with body dysmorphia or societal standards, they were trying to achieve some women resorted to BBL’s. Following their surgery, many have found a renewed sense of self-confidence. But has their newfound confidence led to a decrease in others?
The Consequences
While women go on social media for fitness tips and inspiration, they might be leaving more discouraged and insecure. According to ScienceDirect,
exposure to general fitspiration on TikTok led to increased negative mood and appearance comparisons” for women.
While many argue it is acceptable for gym influencers to get a BBL, many believe that when gym influencers omit this information on their platform, they are deceiving their viewers. This is because many of their followers desire to obtain a similar physique, not knowing they are chasing after unrealistic standards. Viewers may begin to feel their bodies are inadequate when comparing themselves to what they see on social media.
Do you think female gym influencers owe it to their followers to be honest if they have had plastic surgery? Let us know at @VALLEYmag!
