When did it become common for OB/GYNs to advertise laser fat removal in their offices? Many women already feel anxious about visiting doctors, primarily due to the inevitable scale weigh-in that awaits them. The anxiety surrounding this moment is palpable, compounded by the fear of being criticized for their weight. A medical office should be a safe haven for women, a place focused on healing and health care—not a venue for promoting cosmetic procedures.
This sentiment was echoed by a recent message shared by influencer Sarah Taylor, who relayed a disconcerting experience involving her sister, Emily. During her annual gynecological exam, Emily was so taken aback by an announcement in the waiting room about laser fat removal that she decided to leave and reclaim her medical records. In her text to Sarah, she detailed her frustration: “I cannot believe a doctor’s office is promoting this lose-weight-quick scheme to women who may be pregnant or postpartum. It’s not only absurd—it’s dangerous.”
Emily is absolutely correct. The last thing a woman recovering from childbirth should encounter at her doctor’s office is an advertisement for a procedure like ‘Sculpsure.’ Particularly when the marketing message on social media reads, “Something old, something new, something skinny—that could be you.” This is not only tone-deaf; it’s harmful.
It’s disheartening to see that the company isn’t just targeting new mothers but also women preparing for major life events like weddings, implying that their worth is tied to their appearance. When Emily confronted her doctor about the advertisement, he claimed he had “never thought about it” and agreed to take it down. But Emily responded, “That’s good, but I’m still leaving your practice. It’s your responsibility to consider these implications—it’s part of the ‘first do no harm’ principle.”
Sarah reflected on this encounter, noting the importance of challenging societal norms. “This is what standing up to patriarchy looks like. It involves recognizing the harmful messages around us and bravely calling them out,” she stated. “Women should not be pressured to diminish themselves in any way so that society feels more comfortable. Our bodies are not commodities for the economy.”
The last thing any woman, especially a postpartum one, should see in a medical office is advertising from the lucrative diet and fat loss industry. I’ve taken steps to handle this situation during my own appointments by informing nurses that I am open to being weighed but prefer not to know the number. I explain my past struggles with an eating disorder and request that they record the weight without verbalizing it. Generally, they comply, albeit confused. However, a poster like the one Emily encountered would send me over the edge.
Sarah concluded with a powerful statement directed at the medical community: “Remove the patriarchal poison from your offices and focus on delivering quality health care.” This is a crucial message for all medical professionals.
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Summary
The growing trend of OB/GYNs promoting cosmetic procedures like laser fat removal in their offices raises significant concerns about the impact on women’s health and self-esteem. Personal experiences reveal how inappropriate such advertising is, particularly for postpartum women. It’s vital for medical professionals to prioritize health care over commercial interests and to foster an environment that supports women’s well-being.