Research Paper on:
Self Esteem, Self Image, and Cosmetic Surgery

Unformatted Sample Text from the Research Paper:
order to bolster their self-esteem; if the opposite is received, ones self-image declines. Indeed, this emotional rollercoaster is a critical component to what it means to be human.  "Building up ones self-esteem is a gradual process, but if this nucleus of self-respect is developed through certain steps, a more confident personality is certain to emerge" (Timm 92).  When an individuals self-image does not reflect the desired level of positivism, external means are often sought in order to bolster the sagging level of self-esteem, with some of the  most popular choices revolving around cosmetic surgery. Breast enhancement ranks near the top of contemporary womens list of the most effective ways to reconstruct ones self-image, buying into the  assertion that what exists on the outside is a direct reflection of what is on the inside. After three children, Aimee felt her breasts had lost their elasticity and shape,  a realization that nudged at her self-image until she finally decided to have implant surgery. Concerned about the surgical implications and years of hearing horror stories about such procedures,  Aimee was duly apprehensive about moving forward with her plan; however, her sense of self was low enough to override any thoughts she may have had about canceling the operation.  "My breasts were fine before, but especially giving birth to twins changed my breasts a lot" (Interview). Aimees experience turned out to be very beneficial to her overall  outlook, ultimately reinstating her high self-image and providing her with the ability to once again accept herself both inside and outside. Aimees experience is far from unusual throughout todays female  population, particularly due to the pressures placed upon women to maintain a youthful exterior even when nature has taken its course. As "one of the most popular forms of