Graduates go under knife in hope of landing jobs

Local plastic surgery hospitals are reporting a surge in the number of graduates going under the knife in the faint hope that a better look could help land them a good job.

Hospitals said about one-fourth of graduates just wanted a facelift for a job interview without giving proper consideration to the long-term effects of the operation.

Graduates going in for cosmetic surgeries account for as much as 20 percent in June, July and August, compared with less than 7 percent in other months.

"Some of them think plastic surgery is a shortcut for a good job without understanding the risks involved," said Dr Xu Liping, vice president of Shanghai Plastic Surgery Hospital. "Others come to the hospital after their friends got one. They do not have any idea what kind of surgery they want."

"In such cases, we give them advice and suggest professional consultation if necessary," said Liu Qi, a hospital staff.