Rori wept while looking at her phone, seeing her "current self" beside an image of herself from years past. This image, generated by AI, combined two real photos of her before and after cosmetic surgery. The striking compilation, featuring two contrasting versions in a single frame, garnered 15,8 million views and launched a new social media trend in Japan.
To participate, users upload a "before" photo and an "after" photo of their cosmetic procedure. The AI then processes these images, creating a composite where the two versions appear to interact, perhaps taking a selfie or gazing at each other.
For many, this trend offers a reflective look at their often painful and expensive journey of physical transformation. Shinoyu, 22, shared her experience, which included braces, liposuction, a facelift, and eyelid surgery. "Seeing the picture, I realized the immense effort and strength it took to overcome the pain and transform myself," Shinoyu stated.
The trend has received significant online support, with many praising participants' courage in sharing their past transformations.
 |
A young woman in Japan participates in the trend, using AI to merge her before-and-after cosmetic surgery photos. Photo: Baidu
However, the trend has also evoked mixed emotions. Romko, a student, described her "before" image in the composite photo as "ugly," attributing past failures to that appearance.
The trend's popularity has sparked concerns. Psychologists caution that these idealized images could distort teenagers' perceptions of beauty. Critics on social media suggest that skilled makeup application can achieve similar aesthetic results without the associated health risks.
Japan maintains an open stance on cosmetic surgery. In 2022, the country reported approximately 3,3 million procedures, positioning it among the world's largest markets. Japanese law does not currently specify a minimum age for cosmetic surgery, requiring only parental consent for minors. The Asahi Shimbun recently highlighted a noticeable increase in high school students opting for cosmetic procedures.
Thanh Thanh (Japan Times, Baidu, SCMP)
