Is Cosmetic Surgery Permitted in Islam?

Cosmetic Surgery in Islam: Understanding the Rulings and Prohibitions

Question: Is it permissible to have surgeries on body parts, such as the face, nose, breasts, stomach, or private parts, if one is dissatisfied with their appearance?

Answer: From the question, it is clear that the surgeries in question are intended for enhancing beauty. Understand that surgery is permissible when it is necessary, such as when a person cannot function without it or when it is done to correct a significant defect. For example, a companion’s nose was cut off, so he had a silver nose made, and when it started to emit a foul odor, he replaced it with a gold one (Sunan Abi Dawud 4232).

Similarly, if someone’s face gets burned and appears disfigured, surgery can be performed to correct the defect. In such cases, surgery is allowed.

However, undergoing surgery solely for beautification is forbidden because it involves altering Allah’s creation, which is condemned in the Qur’an. Allah has cursed those who alter His creation, and this is considered a satanic act, as mentioned in the Qur’an: “I will command them, and they will change the creation of Allah” (An-Nisa: 119).

The Prophet (ﷺ) also cursed women who pluck their facial hair or create gaps between their teeth to enhance beauty, as these are alterations of Allah’s creation (Bukhari: 4507).

In summary, cosmetic surgery purely for the sake of beauty is forbidden. The woman who asked whether she can undergo surgery to improve her face, nose, or private parts is not permitted to do so because these are not necessities. Instead, a Muslim should focus on beautifying their character and deeds, rather than imitating the immoral practices of other cultures.

Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah 

Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia  

Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail