It’s summer vacation time and Delhi teenagers have found a new way to keep themselves occupied during the summer months; Rather than the traditional past-times of games, drama or extra classes, increasing numbers of teenagers are turning instead to cosmetic surgery. Summer vacation is the perfect time – there is plenty of time to rest and recover from the surgery, and for those who have just graudated, it is a good way to ensure that your face fits your new job.

Many cosmetic surgeons in the country say that they are seeing increasing numbers of school and college students in their surgeries – some put the figure as high as 40%. Previously, cost was one of the major factors involved but it appears that this generation of teenagers have deep pockets and are able to pay for their own surgery. And if they don’t, they call on the bank of Mum and Dad to help them fund their dreams.

Many parents feel that in an increasingly competitive world, looks may just help tip the balance in their child’s favour, and so have no problems with sending their children under the knife. Unfortunately, this sometimes leads to unrealistic expectations and therefore disappointments – some enter surgery with the expectation of looking like a celebrity at the end of it, a result which is usually impossible to achieve.

It seems that the phenomenon of teenagers contemplating cosmetic surgery is not a new one, with young Koreans reportedly also turning to cosmetic surgery in a bid to improve their job prospects. Perhaps in a world where competition for jobs is getting stronger and stronger, having cosmetic surgery to enhance your looks may well end up being a worthwhile investment.