Women who are Interested in Cosmetic Surgery Want it all: the Association between Considering Cosmetic Surgery and women’s Mate Preferences

Abstract

A body of research has investigated different psychological aspects of interest in cosmetic surgery in women. In the current study, we examined the association between interest in undergoing cosmetic surgery and mate preferences in young women. Considering previous work, we hypothesized that interest in cosmetic surgery—as a costly self-promoting behavior in intrasexual competition—would be positively associated with preference for desirable traits in potential mates. Correlational analysis suggested that interest in cosmetic surgery was positively associated with preference for Status/Resources, Attractiveness/Sexuality, and Education/Intelligence in choosing a long-term romantic partner. The correlation between interest in cosmetic surgery and Kindness/Dependability dimension was positive, yet did not reach statistical significance. Findings suggest that women who are more interested in cosmetic surgery set higher standards in long-term mating preferences. Therefore, the hypothesis was supported. Results of the current study are explained in the light of evolutionary approach on intrasexual competition in mating market. Limitations are noted and future directions are discussed.