When you scroll through Instagram you can’t help but notice the huge trend of plastic surgery being addressed, whether it’s is to talk about Kim K.’s latest procedure or your favorite celeb’s post baby snap back – the comments are flowing! 

These topics have become a normal part of our conversations and despite stigmas in the African American community; the procedures are being pursued more and more. Although many cultures have embraced things such as rhinoplasty and breast augmentations for teen birthday gifts, the African American community has not been ready to embrace such. 

Ironically, women are getting these procedures at an alarming rate and because this trend seems to be going nowhere fast, we decided to speak to #PlasticPositive advocate and Plastica author, Samia Gore and get her scoop on why she promotes plastic surgery and her take on stigmas in the community.

A couple of years ago, when Samia Gore started flying to the Dominican Republic to get plastic surgery procedures, she had no idea of the many do’s and don’ts that are associated with going under the knife. Soon, her variety of experiences both good and bad lead her to create an online community where women can talk about cosmetic surgery in a positive and supportive atmosphere. 

As we know, women are going under the knife more and more and it’s been taking place in many cultures for years, but amongst the African American community it is often frowned upon.

In an exclusive with DeluxMag.com she answers some tough questions that are sure to spark debate.

DELUX: Can you tell our readers a little about yourself? samia

SG: I am a wife and mommy of 4, who embarked on my own plastic surgery journey over 4 years ago, which changed my life. Through sharing my own insecurities and experiences with plastic surgery on Instagram, I connected with others just like me on a journey to be the best version of themselves. Today we have a community of over 125,000 men and women who too understand the insecurities people have and use the BODY by Bella Barbies community to grow confident and empowered women. I believe that when women are properly informed about plastic surgery they can make healthier body choices. 

DELUX: Why do you think there is a stigma associated with plastic surgery in the African American community?

SG: There is a stigma with rhinoplasty (nose job) because we are taught to love our heritage and our noses are a strong part of our identity. To some, changing that would mean we are trying to deny our heritage in our subconscious. It’s the same with the Brazilian butt lift but in a different way. I think African American women have a stigma of talking about getting a Brazilian butt lift because we as Black women are naturally “supposed” to have that curviness. To admit you had a butt lift is like admitting you didn’t already have the natural curvy shape that other women of our ethnicity naturally have.

…It’s a tricky subject but I think with communities such as BODY by Bella Barbies, we are changing more women of color being open and more vocal discussing their procedures. As an African American woman, I am thankful for the platform in which I’ve been given to share my experiences openly inspiring others to do the same.

DELUX: What are the most important benefits from getting procedures?

SG: Undergoing a plastic surgery procedure to correct or enhance oneself can result in an improved self-esteem. Those who have undergone plastic surgery procedures report feeling an improved sense of confidence, which has led to attractive positive experiences in their lives. However, it’s important to note that plastic surgery is not meant to treat any medical depression or psychological challenges. If you are seeking plastic surgery in depression in hopes it make you feel better, I caution you to first talk with a medical professional regarding your depression and desires for surgery, so they can help you make the best choice.

DELUX: Why is being #PlasticPositive so important to you?

SG: I look at myself as an African American woman paving a new lane in the world of plastic surgery. I think what I am doing is unique, especially as a woman of color – being recognized by surgeons all over the world for my influence.

 samia

DELUX: What tips would you give to a working woman before considering plastic surgery?

1.     Leave options (SL. FMLA) -Telework/Work from home options may be a possibility

2.     Know how much this will cost you and make sure it is in your budget (surgery/post op care garments etc.)

3.     Be prepared for emergencies

4.     Type of work done and how that will impact you upon return (walking, sitting etc.)

5.     Discretion (get ready for people to start talking) how will you handle this?

6.     Workplace Stigmas (Is your shape appropriate for your workplace)

7.     Rest is vital to recovery. If you are not working from home during this time, don’t. Don’t worry about work and really use this time to care for you and rest so when you return to work you are at your best and ready to get back in the game!

8.     Get Plastica! Plastica is the acclaimed step by step plastic surgery guide written by yours truly, which will walk you through each step on a plastic surgery journey. All of the questions you likely have are answered in this guide. Written from my own experiences, this guide is meant to make your journey organized, seamless, and worry free!

For more information on BODY by Bella Barbies, visit the official website TODAY!

You can also stay connected by following the Instagram page NOW!

 

READ: DELUX TALKS FITNESS & POST BABY BODY WITH AVERI WOODLEY

 

 

Shadress Denise
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