Acceptance of Cosmetic Procedures Among Students at the University of Sulaymaniyah/Iraq: A Cross-Sectional Study

ABSTRACT:Introduction: The global increase in cosmetic procedures, particularly among young people, indicates changing beauty standards and improved accessibility. This cross-sectional research investigated the acceptability of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic interventions among students at the University of Sulaimani, Iraq, and examined relationships with sociodemographic characteristics.Methods: A validated Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale (ACSS) questionnaire has been provided to 439 undergraduate students (70.6% in medical fields and 69.9% female) via online and hard-copy questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27, employing descriptive statistics, t-tests, and ANOVA to evaluate demographic correlations. Informed consent and ethical approval were obtained.Results: The mean age of participants was 20.33 years (95% CI: 20.1220.54). (80.9%) knew about procedural risks; only (15.5%) had experienced interventions. With rhinoplasty (84.6%) and laser hair removal (47.3%) most popular, surgical operations (7.5%) exceeded non-surgical (2.1%). Women showed greater acceptance than men (p<0.001), especially in intrapersonal reasons (e.g., self-image enhancement). Urban residents and participants with previous procedural experience showed greater approval (p < 0.001). Financial situation affected non-surgical procedure acceptability (p=0.047), with wealthy students more likely. Social forces had little effect.Conclusions: Iraqi students show moderate acceptance of cosmetic procedures, motivated by personal rather than societal reasons. Attitudes are greatly influenced by gender, urban living, and past experience. Educational campaigns and stricter safety regulations are needed to address risks and unequal access.