
Over the past decade, the Okanagan region—known for its picturesque lakes, wineries, and laid-back lifestyle—has witnessed a noticeable shift in the world of aesthetic enhancement. Cosmetic procedures, once reserved for the rich and famous, have become increasingly accessible and socially acceptable. But with this boom in beauty treatments comes a growing concern: is the Okanagan experiencing a trend of plastic surgery addiction?
While advancements in medical aesthetics have made it easier for individuals to tweak their appearance with minimal downtime, experts in the region are beginning to notice an unsettling pattern. Clinics across Kelowna, Vernon, and Penticton report a rise in repeat clients, some seeking multiple procedures in quick succession. From Botox and fillers to rhinoplasties and facelifts, the desire for “perfection” seems to be escalating beyond simple self-care.
Dr. Sheena Sikora, a board-certified plastic surgeon based in Kelowna, notes that while many patients come in with realistic expectations, a growing subset appears driven by deeper psychological issues. “We’re seeing more people who aren’t satisfied even after several procedures,” she explains. “They chase an unattainable image of themselves, often influenced by social media filters and celebrity culture.”
This phenomenon isn’t unique to the Okanagan, but the region’s rapidly developing wellness industry and affluent pockets may be contributing to the trend. With more people able to afford cosmetic treatments and a culture that increasingly values youth and beauty, the temptation to enhance—or over-enhance—can be strong.
At the heart of this issue lies the concept of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), a mental health condition where individuals obsess over perceived flaws in their appearance. For those suffering from BDD, plastic surgery rarely provides relief. Instead, it can become a compulsion, leading them to undergo unnecessary and sometimes risky procedures in pursuit of an ever-changing ideal.
Mental health professionals in the Okanagan are raising alarms about the lack of psychological screening in many aesthetic clinics. While reputable surgeons often turn away clients they feel are seeking surgery for the wrong reasons, others may not have the training—or the incentive—to do so. As a result, individuals vulnerable to addiction may fall through the cracks.
Community advocates are calling for a more integrated approach that includes psychological assessment, counseling, and post-operative support. “We need to treat cosmetic procedures like any other medical intervention,” says Lauren Pierce, a licensed therapist in Vernon. “It’s not just about what’s being done to the body—but why.”
As the conversation around plastic surgery evolves in the Okanagan, one thing is clear: education and awareness are critical. Whether driven by societal pressure, internal insecurities, or the simple desire to look one’s best, the growing popularity of cosmetic enhancement must be matched by a commitment to mental well-being and responsible practice.
Only through a balanced approach can the region ensure that beauty pursuits remain empowering, not addictive.