The Impact of Snapchat Use on Self-Image and Inclination Toward Cosmetic Procedures in Saudi Arabia

Background Exposure to social media gives individuals more significant body image concerns, and many studies have emphasized that people with a negative body image are more interested in cosmetic surgery. So, increased exposure to celebrities with aesthetic images and exposure to cosmetic Surgery information and advertisements lead to negative body image in the exposed populations. Aim This study aimed to determine the impact of social media on self-image inclination toward cosmetic procedures. Subjects and methods This is a cross-sectional study conducted among an adult population in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed among participants using social media platforms. the questionnaire was sought information on socio-demographic characteristics (age, gender, education, etc.), the influence of social media on the decision to undergo cosmetic surgery, and the Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale (ACSS). Results Among the 1064 participants recruited, 41.4% were aged less than 25 with females outnumbering men substantially (82.1). Twenty-seven of the respondents increased their desire to undergo a cosmetic procedure due to advertisements or publications posted on social media. The total mean ACSS score was 3.36 (SD 1.69) out of 10 points, indicating lower acceptance. The socio-demographic variables associated with increased ACSS scores were being older, female, educated, having been married, and previous history of cosmetic surgery. Conclusion Despite the influence of Snapchat on body image, there was a low inclination to undergo cosmetic surgery among the general population in Saudi Arabia. The tendency to undergo cosmetic surgery tends to increase due to the influence of increased social media following, social media influencers, and advertisements and publications posted on social media platforms. More research is warranted to determine the perspectives of the general public regarding the influence of social media platforms on the inclination to undergo cosmetic surgery procedures for the enhancement of body appearance.