Treatment of the human body : the possibilities and limits of plastic surgery

• Published in: HNO Vol. 63; no. 1; pp. 6, 8 - 9
• Main Author: Bermes, C
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: German
• Published: Germany 01.01.2015
• Subjects: Body Image - psychology; Cosmetic Techniques - ethics; Cosmetic Techniques - psychology; Dermatologic Surgical Procedures - ethics; Dermatologic Surgical Procedures - methods; Dermatologic Surgical Procedures - psychology; Face - surgery; Germany; Humans; Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures - ethics; Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures - psychology; Reconstructive Surgical Procedures - ethics; Reconstructive Surgical Procedures - psychology; Germany
• ISSN: 1433-0458
• DOI: 10.1007/s00106-014-2960-z

The desire for authenticity is often cited as a motive for making use of plastic surgery. This article aims to elaborate on the meaning of this particular authenticity. At the same time, it discusses reasons that justify or forbid a plastic surgery intervention in the light of ethics. For this purpose, a distinction is made between "objective body" (Körper) and "subjective body" (Leib), and the objectives of medical actions are questioned. Through the terminological differentiation between integrity (Integrität), prosperity (Wohlergehen), and well-being (Wohlbefinden), these objectives are qualified and the limits of medical actions are determined.