According to which accounts you read, the U.S. Senate may be considering a 10% tax on plastic surgery to help pay for the massive costs of an expanded government health care plan. Most sources report that it's a likely no-go, especially given the fact that the amount of money it would raise would be neglible compared to the estimated costs of expanding government-provided health care.
Should plastic surgery be considered for a "sin tax," like cigarettes and alcohol? I don't think so. Unlike cigarettes and alcohol, plastic surgery does not worsen people's health and create a burden on the health care system. In fact, the vast majority of people who have plastic surgery are healthy and stay that way. If the government wants to tax companies that contribute to poor health, then they should consider taxing fast food, vending machines, soda pop companies, potato chip manufacturers, Pizza Hut, Panda Express, and all-you-can-eat buffets. These contribute more to obesity and poor health than a pair of fake breasts!
Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:
