Is Tummy Tuck Haram

Tummy Tuck (abdominoplasty) is a cosmetic surgery procedure that reshapes the abdomen, typically to reduce excess fat and skin. It is also known as abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck” for short.

The procedure can be done on men and women of any age, though most patients are middle aged or older. A tummy tuck can help you improve your self-esteem and quality of life after childbirth or weight gain/loss. In this guide, we find out: Is Tummy Tuck Haram, plastic surgery haram in Islam, punishment for plastic surgery islam, and Is it Haram to get rid of wrinkles?

However, there are some who believe that tummy tucks are haram because it involve changing God’s creation. This article will look at whether Muslim doctors can perform tummy tucks and whether they are permissible in Islam.

Is Tummy Tuck Haram

Plastic surgery is concerned with the correction or restoration of form and function. There are two types of plastic surgery: cosmetic, cosmetic aesthetic and reconstructive.  The purpose of “reconstructive” plastic surgery is to correct physical features which are grossly deformed or abnormal by accepted standards, either as a result of a birth defect, illness, or trauma. Reconstructive surgery aims to reconstruct a part of the body or improve its functioning, while cosmetic surgery aims to improve its appearance. Islam welcomes plastic surgery, if performed for the patient’s benefit. Islam prohibits cosmetic surgery that has the intention of changing the creation of God.

The word “plastic” in plastic surgery, is a Greek word meaning “to form”. Plastic surgery involves the restoration, reconstruction, or alteration of the human body. Plastic surgery is divided into two sections, cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery. The former seeks to improve the patient’s features on a purely aesthetic level, where there is no deformity or trauma. The goal of reconstructive surgery, on the other hand, is to restore functional disorders resulting from trauma, accidents, diseases and congenital defects.

In cosmetic surgery, an often-overlooked aspect of a patient’s culture is his or her religious beliefs. There is a paucity of resources for cosmetic surgeons to enable them to properly service their religious patients. Specific patient concerns should be addressed with the patient’s own religious advisor. Based on Islamic Law, Muslim Jurists have categorized plastic surgery into two types: a) Plastic surgery that is permissible. b) Plastic surgery that is not permissible.

Islamic law (Shari’ah) is based on 2 foundations: The Qur’an (the holy book of all Muslims) and the Sunna (the aspects of Islamic law based on the Prophet Muhammad’s words or acts). The development of Shari’ah in the Sunni branch of Islam over the ages has also required “Ijmaa” (consensus of all competent jurists after the death of the Prophet) and “Qiyas” (analogy) using human reason when no clear rule is found in the Quran or Sunna, resulting in 4 major Sunni schools of jurisprudence. Where appropriate, consideration is also given to “Maslaha” (public interest) and “Urf” (local customary precedent).

 Objectives of Islamic Law (Maqasid al-Shariah)

The objectives of Islamic law could be divided into three parts: (1) Necessities (daruriyat): These include preservation of faith, life, mind, progeny, and property. They are essential for life, religion, and community. (2) Needed Things (hajiyat): these are needed for the community, or for persons. They can live without procuring them, but they are recognized needs for the welfare of society and individuals. (3) Recommended (tahsiniyat): They are also needed by the society or individuals to make life more comfortable and, more beautiful, and try to reach the level of satisfaction and happiness for both the individual and society. The objectives of Islamic law were discussed fully by Muslim scholars over 1,000 years ago. Knowledge of these objectives is an important prerequisite in the formulation of any fatwa (decree) through the process of (ijtihad) which is a self-exertion by a scholar to deduce fatwa (decree) on any issue that does not have direct guidance in the primary sources of the Quran and the Prophetic traditions. These objectives can be viewed as a useful tool in Islamic law to discuss issues pertaining to bioethics. It is an approach originally brought forth by Imam al-Shafii, the founder of the Shafii School. Al-Juwayni (d 478 H/1085 CE) was the first to classify the objectives of Islamic law (Maqasid al-Shariah) into three categories, beginning with dharuriyyat (essentials), hajiyyat (necessities), and tahsiniyyat (desirables). Of these, the most critical is “essentials” (dharuriyyat) where “five” matters are given prominence for protection and preservation, namely the protection and preservation of faith, life, intellect, progeny, and property. These five aspects are collectively known as (the five essentials), and are important in protecting and preserving the dignity of mankind.

Al Izz ibn Abdul Salam, a renowned Islamic jurist (d 660H/1243 CE) in his book “Qawa’id al Ahkam (Basics of Rulings) said: “The aim of medicine, like the aim of Shari’ah (Islamic law), is to procure the “maslaha” (utility or benefit) of human beings, bringing safety and health to them and warding off the harm of injuries and ailments, as much as possible.” He also said: “The aim of medicine is to preserve health; restore it when it is lost; remove ailment or reduce its effects. To reach that goal it may be essential to accept the lesser harm, in order to ward off a greater one; or lose a certain benefit to procure a greater one.”. This is a very pragmatic attitude, which is widely accepted in Islamic jurisprudence, and it is frequently applied in daily practice in all fields including medicine. It is important to emphasize that intention (niyya) is very important in any deed in Islam. The Prophet said: “Deeds are judged by intention.” An action though may be good apparently, but done with bad intention will be judged by God on the Day of Judgement, and will be punished. On the contrary, if someone intends to do a good deed, but when performing it, he unintentionally produced some harm, then he will be pardoned. The prayer in the Qur’an touches upon this theme: “Our Lord do not impose blame upon us if we have forgotten or erred” (Quran, 2: 286).

The Principle of intention comprises several subprinciples. The sub principle “each action is judged by the intention behind it” calls upon the physician to consult his inner conscience and make sure that his actions, seen or not seen, are based on good intentions.

Islamic view of Plastic surgery

Contemporary Muslim scholars seem to be in agreement that a plastic surgery is allowed when there is a real necessity or need, such as removing congenital defects (for example, removing an extra digit), or to treat defects caused by sickness, traffic accidents, burns, etc. This view applies to the reconstructive plastic surgery. This ruling is deduced from the incident where the Prophet (Peace be upon Him) (PBUH) allowed a companion called Arfajah ibn Saad, whose nose was cut in a battle, to wear a nose made of gold. Besides, conducting such surgeries is not intended to what is termed as “taghyir khalq Allah” (changing God’s creation), which is the essential factor why many scholars forbid many types of modern plastic surgeries. In reality, the main reason for allowing such surgeries is to remove harm, and relieve the person concerned from physical and psychological suffering.

Medical intervention is justified on the basic principle is that injury, if it occurs, should be relieved. An injury should not be relieved by a medical procedure that leads to an injury of the same magnitude as a side effect and this will be decided by trustworthy specialist. This issue comes under the ruling which says: (an injury should not be removed by another injury).

The desire to undertake plastic surgery arises out of dissatisfaction with defects and the associated embarrassing appearance. Thus technology to remove or correct defects is not opposing or changing God’s creation.

The purpose of surgery on congenital malformations is restoration of the normal appearance, to relieve psychological pressure or embarrassment, and restore function. These purposes do not involve change of “fitra” (primordial human nature) but restoration to its state before the injury. A surgical operation to reveal the true gender of an apparent hermaphrodite is not change of human nature, but an attempt to restore the altered structure by hormonal or chromosomal damage, to its normal shape and function. Such operations have another objective of trying to preserve or restore the reproductive function.

Similarly, scars left by skin diseases, or caused by accidents and burns can induce physical and psychological pain and harm. Islam allows people afflicted with such deformities to rectify them by surgical means.

Several biomaterials, either alone or in combination with cultured cellular products, have been introduced to compensate for the scarcity of autologous donor tissue or to improve healing in a variety of surgical specialties such as abdominal and plastic surgery. Many of these biomaterials are of porcine origin. It is well known that Islam has prohibited the use of porcine or any of its products. In life-threatening conditions as well as severe diseases, the use of porcine-derived products is permissible if similar non-porcine-derived materials are not available. In this case, the use of porcine-derived products represents a necessity and is allowed.

Tummy Tuck Surgery | Weight Loss Surgery

Cosmetic (Aesthetic) surgery

Seeking beautification is encouraged by Islam in the first place. The Prophetic hadith says: “God is beautiful and He likes beauty”. Therefore, intending more beautification is generally lawful. In addition, seeking beautification in one’s body, according to many traditional jurists, can also be a way to remove psychological harm and stress.  Removal of harm, be it material or psychological, is intended by Islam, as the universal rule indicates “Harm should be removed”.

Beautification used to reshape a significantly deformed part of the body is generally permitted in Islam, as long as it is used for a valid reason. Some scholars, on the other hand, report that surgeries for beautification are the result of the materialistic design followed by Western civilization, primarily focusing on the body and its desires. Standards set by Hollywood or sport stars, and the media are the main reason behind their increasing popularity. People preoccupied with the body than with soul, indulge in excessive beautification and reshaping of their bodies, unnecessarily changing what God has created and subjecting themselves to pain, torture and waste of money. Mutilation of the body is clearly prohibited in Islam. Cosmetic surgery may be considered as deliberate self-mutilation, which is indeed what happens when some cosmetic surgeries fail.

Cosmetic surgery is not permissible when the purpose of this procedure is to take a normal body structure and improve it to make it look better and improve the person’s self-esteem or appear more attractive; for example, breast augmentation, tummy tucks (abdominoplasty), face lifts, etc. This kind of surgery has been condemned in the Qur’an and Hadith as it entails interfering with the natural way God has created a person without a valid reason. The intention behind these types of surgeries is just seeking beautification, which does not stand alone as a suitable reason for permitting them. Rather, intending mere beautification was the reason for the cursing by the Prophet (PBUH) of those women, who pluck their eyebrows and file their teeth for the purpose of beautification and change the creation of God”. Therefore, it is unlawful for a Muslim surgeon to carry out surgery in order to merely make someone look better or to improve their appearance.

Carrying out a cosmetic operation for ill-intentions is totally prohibited. For example, the surgeries carried out to deceive other people (such as a woman or a man doing face lifts to look younger with an intention to deceive a marriage candidate), or the surgeries meant to disguise criminals to avoid detection. Sex reassignment surgery (Sex change) is definitely prohibited. However, operations to decide the sex in cases of pseudo hermaphroditism are permitted.

Some scholars state that every type of cosmetic surgery should be examined individually, since each has its own features and motivations, which should be the base for extracting the proper legal ruling. The motivation for many modern plastic surgeries is not always just seeking mere beautification. Rather, they can be for other reasons, which can place them under the category of hajiyyat (necessities), or even under the category of dharuriyyat (essentials), both of which can render what is unlawful lawful. For examples, breast augmentation is prohibited when the breasts are in the normal size and carrying on a cosmetic surgery on them has no real demand; but it can be permissible in some circumstances where the breasts are extremely flabby, in a sense they cause the person concerned great psychological and physical suffering. Likewise, tummy tucks are permissible when they are intended, for example, for medical treatment to protect from serious diseases, or to restore a woman’s significantly enlarged abdomen to its natural shape after multiple pregnancies and childbirth.

Legal liability in cosmetic surgery is distinctly different from general principles of professionalism, because the objectives in cosmetic surgery are different from common therapeutic targets. The cosmetic surgeon may not encounter a “patient”, but may face a “healthy person” who is seeking beauty. The results of surgery are not always in accordance with the patients’ expectations, so surgeons should make the patient fully aware of the risks and complications, both expected and potential, of the operation.

Islamic Fiqh Academy Resolution on Plastic Surgery

One of the most influential bodies of Islamic ethico-legal deliberation is the Organization of Islamic Conferences’ Islamic Fiqh Academy (OIC-IFA) which brings together scholars of Islam and medicine for Islamic ethico-legal deliberation around bioethical challenges faced in the Muslim and non-Muslim world. The International Islamic Fiqh Academy discussed the issue of plastic surgery in 2007 and issued the following resolution:

  1. It is permissible to perform the necessary plastic surgery, which is intended to:

(A) Restore the shape of the body organs to the situation in which man was created according to God saying: (We have certainly created man in the best of stature) [Quran: 95:4].

(B) Restoring the normal function of the body,

(C) To repair congenital defects such as: cleft lip, severe nose deformities, nevus, excess fingers and teeth and finger adhesion, if their presence causes physical or moral harm.

(D) Repair of acquired defects caused by burns, accidents, diseases, etc., such as: skin grafting, full reconstitution of the breast if removed, or in part if it is large or small, causing a medical problem.

(E) Removal of “ugliness” causing a person psychological or organ damage.

2. It is not permissible to perform cosmetic plastic surgery which is not considered a medical treatment and is intended to change the creation of the normal person, according to his/her desires, and desires of the tradition of others, such as changing the face shape to appear with a certain appearance, or with the intention of deceiving and misleading justice, or change the shape of the nose or eyes, or enlarge or reduce lips, or cheeks.

3. The body weight may be reduced by the approved scientific means, including surgery (Liposuction), if the obesity poses a medical problem, and there was no way other than surgery, provided there is no damage.

4. It is not permissible to remove wrinkles by surgery or injection, unless it is a medical Problem, provided there is no damage” .

Conclusion

Islam permits plastic surgery for the purpose of treating the disease and to save or preserve the function of the body organs. It is not permissible to undergo cosmetic surgery when the purpose is merely to beautify oneself or improve one’s appearance as it entails altering the creation of God without a valid reason. It will only be permissible to undergo cosmetic surgery when it is needed due to a health issue or some type of deformity on the body.

Is Body Sculpting Haram

“Since tummy tucks, Botox, facelifts and breast enlargements weren’t available when the Hebrew Scriptures, Qur’an, Bhagavad Gita and other holy texts were composed,” Alarcon says, “cosmetic enhancement is often a grey area as far as religion is concerned.”

Should faith traditions influence cosmetic enhancement? That’s a question Marissa Alarcon asked herself after seeing the social media circus happening on Filipino Facebook regarding Marlou Arizala.

“Comments on social media said Marlou was the least good-looking of the five and he seemed out of place in the group,” Alarcon says. “He became a target for ‘bashers’ and ‘haters.’ The comments were demeaning, at best.”

Arizala underwent cosmetic enhancement surgery, changed his screen name to Xander Ford, became a media darling, and now enjoys celebrity status in the Philippines.

Alarcon, who is from the Philippines, knew the country’s strongly Catholic tradition and wondered about the church’s response. Was there specific teaching on the subject of cosmetic enhancement? What about other denominations and world religions?

She began researching the subject and recently published her findings in a book entitled Religious Perspectives on Cosmetic Enhancement.

Few would question the morality of reconstructive surgery in cases involving disfigurement, like that of Pakistani female education activist, Malala Yousafzai, who was shot in the face at close range. Or the woman in France who lost her nose, lips and chin when her dog attacked her.

But what about the majority of cosmetic enhancement procedures which are considered to be purely vanity surgeries?

Psychology Today cited a 1997 survey that said 56% of women and 43% of men are dissatisfied with their overall appearance. Alarcon is confident the numbers are much higher today given the prevalence and popularity of enhancement surgeries.

“Since tummy tucks, Botox, facelifts and breast enlargements weren’t available when the Hebrew Scriptures, Qur’an, Bhagavad Gita and other holy texts were composed,” Alarcon says, “cosmetic enhancement is often a grey area as far as religion is concerned.”

But that doesn’t mean that people of faith don’t have specific convictions on the subject. In her research, Alarcon interviewed people from a variety of professional, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. Interviewees included representatives of Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, mainstream Protestant Christianity, and Roman and Ukrainian Catholicism.

Using Marlou as a conversation starter, she posed a slate of questions, including how the person’s faith tradition views cosmetic enhancement, whether there is specific teaching on the subject, and if their culture or ethnicity influences their opinions.

Responses to her questions showed that heritage and culture play a significant role in the opinions of people born outside of North America. Being thin may be seen by many as criteria for beauty in North America, but in traditional African culture, being thin or slim is associated with poverty and suffering. For Africans, good character and respecting one’s elders and one’s culture is considered integral in the perception and pursuit of beauty.

In Filipino culture, pale skin is considered evidence of higher class, and is therefore viewed as more beautiful.

Prior to 1920, a white complexion was considered the height of beauty in North America, too. Post-1920, a darker complexion was prized and seen as a sign of affluence, leisure and holidays spent sunbathing.

Christians Alarcon interviewed frequently mentioned humans being created in the image of God, and cited Scriptures like Proverbs 31:30: “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

Hindu interviewees quoted a teaching from their faith: “Without virtue, beauty is useless; our outer beauty fades but our inner thoughts, feelings, values and personality never leave us.”

A Sikh professor remarked, “When we receive a gift, we don’t tell the giver we do not like it and wish to exchange it … Since it is a gift, we are happy to have it and appreciate the gift as it is. Our bodies and appearance should be thought of in this way, as a perfect gift that does not need to be altered or exchanged.”

“Vanity and pride are considered man’s greatest sins,” said a follower of Islam. “Therefore, altering God’s creation in pursuit of beauty is forbidden.” While these teachings do not specifically refer to cosmetic enhancement, he said, they are easily relatable. “When it is not for a medical reason, altering God’s creation … yourself … in pursuit of beauty is unacceptable, a form of vanity, which is a sin.”

Most respondents believed that what matters most is the individual’s own perception of what is right, wrong, good, or bad for them. Several considered cosmetic enhancement a drastic measure and suggested that focusing on the individual’s talents, gifts and inner healing was a better option.

plastic surgery haram in islam

Plastic surgery is concerned with the correction or restoration of form and function. There are two types of plastic surgery: cosmetic, cosmetic aesthetic and reconstructive. The purpose of “reconstructive” plastic surgery is to correct physical features, which are grossly deformed or abnormal by accepted standards, either as a result of a birth defect, illness, or trauma. Reconstructive surgery aims to reconstruct a part of the body or improve its functioning, while cosmetic surgery aims to improve appearance. Islam welcomes plastic surgery, if performed for the patient’s benefit. Islam prohibits the cosmetic surgery that has the intention of changing the creation of God.

Key words: Plastic surgery, Aesthetic surgery, Cosmetic surgery, Islam, medical ethics

The word “plastic” in plastic surgery, is a Greek word meaning “to form”. Plastic surgery involves the restoration, reconstruction, or alteration of the human body. Plastic surgery is divided into two sections, cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery. The former seeks to improve the patient’s features on a purely aesthetic level, where there is no deformity or trauma. The goal of reconstructive surgery, on the other hand, is restoring functional disorders resulting from trauma, accidents, diseases and congenital defects.1

In cosmetic surgery, an often-overlooked aspect of a patient’s cultural is his and her religious beliefs. There is a paucity of resources for cosmetic surgeons to enable them to properly service their religious patients. Specific patient concerns should be addressed with the patient’s own religious advisor.2 Based on Islamic Law, Muslim Jurists have categorized plastic surgery into two types: a) Plastic surgery that is permissible. b) Plastic surgery that is not permissible.

Islamic law (Shari’ah) is based on 2 foundations: The Qur’an (the holy book of all Muslims) and the Sunna (the aspects of Islamic law based on the Prophet Muhammad’s words or acts). The development of Shari’ah in the Sunni branch of Islam over the ages has also required “Ijmaa” (consensus of all competent jurists after the death of the Prophet) and “Qiyas” (analogy) using the human reason when no clear rule is found in the Quran or Sunna, resulting in 4 major Sunni schools of jurisprudence. Where appropriate, consideration is also given to “Maslaha” (public interest) and “Urf” (local customary precedent).3, 4

Objectives of Islamic Law (Maqasid al-Shariah)

The objectives of Islamic law could be divided into three parts: (1) Necessities (daruriyat): These include preservation of faith, life, mind, progeny, and property. They are essential for life, religion, and community. (2) Needed Things (hajiyat): these are needed for the community, or for persons. They can live without procuring them, but they are recognized needs for the welfare of society and individuals. (3) Recommended (tahsiniyat): They are also needed by the society or individuals to make life more comfortable and, more beautiful, and try to reach the level of satisfaction and happiness for both the individual and society.5, 6 The objectives of Islamic law were discussed fully by Muslim scholars over 1,000 years ago. Knowledge of these objectives is an important prerequisite in the formulation of any fatwa (decree) through the process of (ijtihad) which is a self-exertion by a scholar to deduce fatwa (decree) on any issue that does not have direct guidance in the primary sources of the Quran and the Prophetic traditions.7 These objectives can be viewed as a useful tool in Islamic law to discuss issues pertaining to bioethics. It is an approach originally brought forth by Imam al-Shafii, the founder of the Shafii School. Al-Juwayni (d 478 H/1085 CE) was the first to classify the objectives of Islamic law (Maqasid al-Shariah) into three categories, beginning with dharuriyyat (essentials), hajiyyat (necessities), and tahsiniyyat (desirables). Of these, the most critical is “essentials” (dharuriyyat) where “five” matters are given prominence for protection and preservation, namely the protection and preservation of faith, life, intellect, progeny, and property. These five aspects are collectively known as (the five essentials), and are important in protecting and preserving the dignity of mankind.5, 8

Al Izz ibn Abdul Salam, a renowned Islamic jurist (d 660H/1243 CE) in his book “Qawa’id al Ahkam (Basics of Rulings) said: “The aim of medicine, like the aim of Shari’ah (Islamic law), is to procure the “maslaha” (utility or benefit) of human beings, bringing safety and health to them and warding off the harm of injuries and ailments, as much as possible.” He also said: “The aim of medicine is to preserve health; restore it when it is lost; remove ailment or reduce its effects. To reach that goal it may be essential to accept the lesser harm, in order to ward off a greater one; or lose a certain benefit to procure a greater one.”. This is a very pragmatic attitude, which is widely accepted in Islamic jurisprudence, and it is frequently applied in daily practice in all fields including medicine.9, 10 It is important to emphasize that intention (niyya) is very important in any deed in Islam. The Prophet said: “Deeds are judged by intention.”11 An action though may be good apparently, but done with bad intention will be judged by God on the Day of Judgement, and will be punished. On the contrary, if someone intends to do a good deed, but when performing it, he unintentionally produced some harm, then he will be pardoned. The prayer in the Qur’an touches upon this theme: “Our Lord do not impose blame upon us if we have forgotten or erred” (Quran, 2: 286).

The Principle of intention comprises several subprinciples. The sub principle “each action is judged by the intention behind it” calls upon the physician to consult his inner conscience and make sure that his actions, seen or not seen, are based on good intentions.12

Islamic view of Plastic surgery

Contemporary Muslim scholars seem to be in agreement that a plastic surgery is allowed when there is a real necessity or need, such as removing congenital defects (for example, removing an extra digit), or to treat defects caused by sickness, traffic accidents, burns, etc.13 This view applies to the reconstructive plastic surgery. This ruling is deduced from the incident where the Prophet (Peace be upon Him) (PBUH) allowed a companion called Arfajah ibn Saad, whose nose was cut in a battle, to wear a nose made of gold.14 Besides, conducting such surgeries is not intended to what is termed as “taghyir khalq Allah” (changing God’s creation), which is the essential factor why many scholars forbid many types of modern plastic surgeries. In reality, the main reason for allowing such surgeries is to remove harm, and relieve the person concerned from physical and psychological suffering.15

Medical intervention is justified on the basic principle is that injury, if it occurs, should be relieved. An injury should not be relieved by a medical procedure that leads to an injury of the same magnitude as a side effect and this will be decided by trustworthy specialist. This issue comes under the ruling which says: (an injury should not be removed by another injury).15, 16

The desire to undertake plastic surgery arises out of dissatisfaction with defects and the associated embarrassing appearance. Thus technology to remove or correct defects is not opposing or changing God’s creation.

The purpose of surgery on congenital malformations is restoration of the normal appearance, to relieve psychological pressure or embarrassment, and restore function. These purposes do not involve change of “fitra” (primordial human nature) but restoration to its state before the injury. A surgical operation to reveal the true gender of an apparent hermaphrodite is not change of human nature, but an attempt to restore the altered structure by hormonal or chromosomal damage, to its normal shape and function. Such operations have another objective of trying to preserve or restore the reproductive function.12

Similarly, scars left by skin diseases, or caused by accidents and burns can induce physical and psychological pain and harm. Islam allows people afflicted with such deformities to rectify them by surgical means.17

Several biomaterials, either alone or in combination with cultured cellular products, have been introduced to compensate for the scarcity of autologous donor tissue or to improve healing in a variety of surgical specialties such as abdominal and plastic surgery. Many of these biomaterials are of porcine origin. It is well known that Islam has prohibited the use of porcine or any of its products. In life-threatening conditions as well as severe diseases, the use of porcine-derived products is permissible if similar non-porcine-derived materials are not available. In this case, the use of porcine-derived products represents a necessity and is allowed.18

Cosmetic (Aesthetic) surgery

Seeking beautification is encouraged by Islam in the first place. The Prophetic hadith says: “God is beautiful and He likes beauty”.19 Therefore, intending more beautification is generally lawful. In addition, seeking beautification in one’s body, according to many traditional jurists, can also be a way to remove psychological harm and stress. Removal of harm, be it material or psychological, is intended by Islam, as the universal rule indicates “Harm should be removed”.15

Beautification used to reshape a significantly deformed part of the body is generally permitted in Islam, as long as it is used for a valid reason. Some scholars, on the other hand, report that surgeries for beautification are the result of the materialistic design followed by Western civilization, primarily focusing on the body and its desires. Standards set by Hollywood or sport stars, and the media are the main reason behind their increasing popularity. People preoccupied with the body than with soul, indulge in excessive beautification and reshaping of their bodies, unnecessarily changing what God has created and subjecting themselves to pain, torture and waste of money. Mutilation of the body is clearly prohibited in Islam. Cosmetic surgery may be considered as deliberate self-mutilation, which is indeed what happens when some cosmetic surgeries fail.20

Cosmetic surgery is not permissible when the purpose of this procedure is to take a normal body structure and improve it to make it look better and improve the person’s self-esteem or appear more attractive; for example, breast augmentation, tummy tucks (abdominoplasty), face lifts, etc.13, 17 This kind of surgery has been condemned in the Qur’an and Hadith as it entails interfering with the natural way God has created a person without a valid reason. The intention behind these types of surgeries is just seeking beautification, which does not stand alone as a suitable reason for permitting them. Rather, intending mere beautification was the reason for the cursing by the Prophet (PBUH) of those women, who pluck their eyebrows and file their teeth for the purpose of beautification and change the creation of God”.21 Therefore, it is unlawful for a Muslim surgeon to carry out surgery in order to merely make someone look better or to improve their appearance.15

Carrying out a cosmetic operation for ill-intentions is totally prohibited. For example, the surgeries carried out to deceive other people (such as a woman or a man doing face lifts to look younger with an intention to deceive a marriage candidate), or the surgeries meant to disguise criminals to avoid detection. Sex reassignment surgery (Sex change) is definitely prohibited. However, operations to decide the sex in cases of pseudo hermaphroditism are permitted.15, 17

Some scholars state that every type of cosmetic surgery should be examined individually, since each has its own features and motivations, which should be the base for extracting the proper legal ruling. The motivation for many modern plastic surgeries is not always just seeking mere beautification. Rather, they can be for other reasons, which can place them under the category of hajiyyat (necessities), or even under the category of dharuriyyat (essentials), both of which can render what is unlawful lawful. For examples, breast augmentation is prohibited when the breasts are in the normal size and carrying on a cosmetic surgery on them has no real demand; but it can be permissible in some circumstances where the breasts are extremely flabby, in a sense they cause the person concerned great psychological and physical suffering. Likewise, tummy tucks are permissible when they are intended, for example, for medical treatment to protect from serious diseases, or to restore a woman’s significantly enlarged abdomen to its natural shape after multiple pregnancies and childbirth.15, 22

Legal liability in cosmetic surgery is distinctly different from general principles of professionalism, because the objectives in cosmetic surgery are different from common therapeutic targets. The cosmetic surgeon may not encounter a “patient”, but may face a “healthy person” who is seeking beauty. The results of surgery are not always in accordance with the patients’ expectations, so surgeons should make the patient fully aware of the risks and complications, both expected and potential, of the operation. 1, 23

Islamic Fiqh Academy Resolution on Plastic Surgery

One of the most influential bodies of Islamic ethico-legal deliberation is the Organization of Islamic Conferences’ Islamic Fiqh Academy (OIC-IFA) which brings together scholars of Islam and medicine for Islamic ethico-legal deliberation around bioethical challenges faced in the Muslim and non-Muslim world. The International Islamic Fiqh Academy discussed the issue of plastic surgery in 2007 and issued the following resolution:

(A) Restore the shape of the body organs to the situation in which man was created according to God saying: (We have certainly created man in the best of stature) [Quran: 95:4].

(B) Restoring the normal function of the body,

(C) To repair congenital defects such as: cleft lip, severe nose deformities, nevus, excess fingers and teeth and finger adhesion, if their presence causes physical or moral harm.

(D) Repair of acquired defects caused by burns, accidents, diseases, etc., such as: skin grafting, full reconstitution of the breast if removed, or in part if it is large or small, causing a medical problem.

(E) Removal of “ugliness” causing a person psychological or organ damage.

2. It is not permissible to perform cosmetic plastic surgery which is not considered a medical treatment and is intended to change the creation of the normal person, according to his/her desires, and desires of the tradition of others, such as changing the face shape to appear with a certain appearance, or with the intention of deceiving and misleading justice, or change the shape of the nose or eyes, or enlarge or reduce lips, or cheeks.

3. The body weight may be reduced by the approved scientific means, including surgery (Liposuction), if the obesity poses a medical problem, and there was no way other than surgery, provided there is no damage.

4. It is not permissible to remove wrinkles by surgery or injection, unless it is a medical Problem, provided there is no damage” 24.

Islam permits plastic surgery for the purpose of treating the disease and to save or preserve the function of the body organs. It is not permissible to undergo cosmetic surgery when the purpose is merely to beautify oneself or improve one’s appearance as it entails altering the creation of God without a valid reason. It will only be permissible to undergo cosmetic surgery when it is needed due to a health issue or some type of deformity on the body.

Conflict of interest: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

punishment for plastic surgery islam

The majority opinion of Islamic scholars is that plastic surgery is haram for the purpose of beautification. However, they consider it permissible if there is an explicit need, such as a medical need or to correct a physical defect.

Is Getting Implants Haram

Islamic scholars consider plastic surgery haram unless there is a need for it, such as a medical need or to correct a deformity. Otherwise, Islamic authority figures believe that cosmetic surgery is haram in general.

We researched many sources to understand why scholars formed this opinion. Let’s take a look at the evidences and what authority figures have to say.

Islam Q&A, an Islamic authority site, discussed how plastic surgery is performed either by choice (for beautification) or out of need. They clarified that plastic surgery is only halal if there is a need for it, which may arise because (source):

Additionally, the authority site clarified that both physical and congenital faults (resulting from illness) can be corrected or removed using plastic surgery. The authority site clarified that these faults can cause psychological or physical harm, and it’s, therefore, halal to perform surgery on the afflicted.

We also consulted a Fatwa by Dar Al-Ifta, in response to a question about undergoing rhinoplasty to reduce an abnormally large nose’s size. The nose caused the person breathing problems and mental distress.

Dar Al-Ifta responded clarifying that, although plastic surgery is prohibited, it’s halal if a physician deems it necessary for physical reasons, or to correct a congenital defect. (source)

Some examples Islam Q&A gave of faults include twisted fingers or toes, scars left by skin diseases such as leprosy, and scars caused by burning. The authority source further clarified that certain cosmetic surgical procedures are haram without excuse, because they are performed for beautification and there is no need for them (source).

They specified the following procedures:

The authority figures further clarified that these operations are deceitful and tamper with Allah’s creation, and many of them result in ongoing pain post-operation. Thus, Islam Q&A concluded that these procedures are haram.

Why Is Plastic Surgery Haram?

Plastic surgery without any need is haram because it alters Allah’s creation. However, if there is a need, such as a medical need, then it is considered halal. Islamic scholars largely concur with this viewpoint.

Is Face Lift Haram?

Facelifts are performed to make you appear younger, which, according to Islamic scholars, is deceitful and haram.

We consulted sources including Islam Q&A and IslamWeb.net, and both authority sites shared the same understanding regarding facelifts.

IslamWeb.Net clarified that plastic surgery for beautification is haram, and they believe facelifts fall under this category because they’re performed to make one look younger. Thus, they stated that it’s haram and considered as changing Allah’s creation (source).

Many Islamic authority sites and scholars cite the following hadith as evidence for beautification-related surgery being haram:

The Prophet said: Abdullah (bin Masood) said, “Allah curses those ladies who practice tattooing and those who get themselves tattooed, and those ladies who remove the hair from their faces and those who make artificial spaces between their teeth in order to look more beautiful, whereby they change Allah’s creation.” 

Islam Q&A has the same stance on the matter. They clarified that since face-lifts are usually done for beautification and to appear younger, the surgery is considered as changing the appearance of Allah’s creation, and is therefore haram. (source)

Is It Haram To Get a Nose Job

Islamic authority figures clarified that nose jobs, or rhinoplasty, follow the general Islamic guidelines about surgery. Thus, it is haram to get a nose job unless there is a need (such as to correct a deformity).

We referenced a fatwa earlier addressing a situation where getting a nose job is halal. In that fatwa, Dar Al-Ifta clarified that getting the nose job is halal provided it’s deemed necessary by a physician (source).

Islam Q&A shares their view regarding nose jobs. The authority site answered a question about undergoing a physician-recommended rhinoplasty, and here’s the summary (source):

If there is some defect in the nose and the purpose of the cosmetic surgery is to remove that defect, then there is nothing wrong with nose jobs (rhinoplasty). But if the purpose is simply to make it more beautiful, then it is not permissible to do this cosmetic nose surgery.

In their full response, the Islamic authority figures clarified that nose jobs follow the same Islamic laws as other types of plastic surgery. So, they are permissible only if there is a need, and not for beautification.

They also cited the following hadith, which indicates operations of this kind are permissible provided there is no intention to change Allah’s creation (source):

“‘Arfajah ibn As’ad narrated that he lost his nose in the battle of al-Kulab during the Jahiliyyah, so he wore a nose made of silver but it became putrid, so the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) told him to wear a nose made of gold.”

Additionally, many Islamic authority figures, including Islam Q&A, reference the following verse from Surah al-Nisa as evidence that changing Allah’s creation is haram:

“They (all those who worship others other than Allah) invoke nothing but female deities besides Him (Allah), and they invoke nothing but Shaytan (Satan), a persistent rebel! Allah cursed him. And he [Shaytan (Satan)] said: ‘I will take an appointed portion of your slaves. ‘Verily, I will mislead them, and surely, I will arouse in them false desires; and certainly, I will order them to slit the ears of cattle, and indeed I will order them to change the nature created by Allah’” 

They further clarified that Shaitan (Satan) encourages people to change Allah’s creation.

Is Nose Thread Lift Haram?

Although a nose thread lift isn’t surgical, most Islamic authority figures use the same evidences as for rhinoplasty to justify its impermissibility. The reason is that, according to Islamic scholars, nose thread lifts still alter your physical appearance, and are therefore only permitted if there is a need.

Mufti Ebrahim Desai shared his detailed fatwa regarding nose thread lifts on Idealwoman.org (source). He clarified the following points:

Finally, the mufti referred the questioner to a detailed fatwa on the Islamic laws regarding cosmetic surgery (which includes procedures like liposuction – learn more about what Islamic scholars have to say on the ruling of getting liposuction surgery). So, the indication is that nose thread lift follows the same principles.


Is it Haram to get rid of wrinkles

Skin free of hair is considered beautiful, smooth, and soft. It makes your appearance glowing, and naturally, beauty can be seen. Having clean and clear skin shows good hygienic practice in any person’s life. Many candidates want to get rid of hairy skin or get tired of wax, shaving, hair removal creams, and tweezing. The best way is to get a treatment that will remove the hair permanently. There is a laser for hair removal that is performed for eliminating the hair from the skin.

Nowadays, there are many people who misconception the multiple things. When people consult for the hair removal treatment, they ask a common question: Is it haram to use laser for hair removal. So, it is better to consult with your expert who can describe you actual facts, and you will understand what is better and haram. Please read this blog post, where you will learn about it.

The Concept In Islam:

According to the report, we attend many such candidates who asked about the treatment that is allowed in Islam or haram? If we talk about the actual facts related to the religion Islam, it clearly indicates that if you hurt your body’s part with your will, it will be haram for you.

Simply, if your laser treatment is painful and hurting you, then it will be haram for you. On the other hand, if you are getting the painless procedure and performing without any hurt, it is openly allowed.

In the religion of Islam, hair on specific body parts should be removed for cleanliness and hygienic concerns. Considering this statement, laser for hair removal is allowed in Islam and will be painless. However, if you still doubt, your research needs to check its compatibility with your religion, Islam.

Conditions

There are two primary conditions that can be highlighted when anyone goes for hair removal treatment. It is essential to learn these conditions if you are following the rules of religion. These are mentioned below:

It is significant for both genders; if the women want to get hair removal treatment, they must consult with a woman practitioner who will perform your laser procedure. Moreover, the exact condition goes for men as well.

When you have an initial consultation session with your practitioner, ask them about the procedure and make sure they will use the advanced technology laser device, which will be completely painless. Moreover, it will be perfect if your practitioner performs your laser hair removal treatment with Soprano ice and its Platinum, it will make it pain-free.

What is Laser Hair Removal?

According to SKN cosmetics, it is a non-invasive procedure that is performed to eliminate the hair from several parts of the body. It is the most popular cosmetic procedure that is used to get rid of hairy skin. The practitioner will apply numbing cream, and the laser will target pigment in the hair follicle that will absorb the light, which will destroy the hair. It only takes 15 to 20 minutes for a procedure, depending on the treating areas. Moreover, it may require 4–5 sessions for permanent removal of hairs.

Is It a Painful Procedure?

In simple words, no! It is not a painful procedure. An expert practitioner will always perform laser therapy, and it is necessary to apply numbing cream on the treated area to making it painless. You can openly ask your practitioner before the treatment. They will discuss all the details and procedural steps with you.

What Are The Benefits?

After knowing about Is it haram to use laser for hair removal, there are a few effective benefits that you can obtain after getting laser treatment. These are mentioned below:

  • It is a pain-free treatment.
  • The hair will be removed permanently after a few sessions.
  • Skin will be apparent, smooth, and soft.
  • It will provide long-lasting results.
  • Safest and affordable process.

In a Nutshell

Therefore, it is not haram to have laser treatment for hair removal permanently. In the religion of Islam, it is necessary to remove hair for cleanliness and religious reasons. Still, before considering laser treatment, it is vital to do research. Furthermore, if you want to get a hair removal laser, then consult SKN Cosmetics for it. All skin tones can be treated.

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