Medical Aesthetic Procedures in Dermatology, Venereology, and Aesthetics Specialist Practice: An Islamic Law Review

Abstract

The development of medical aesthetics has expanded the use of various minimally invasive procedures, such as botulinum toxin, dermal fillers, thread lifts, and skin rejuvenation. Although generally used to enhance appearance, some procedures also serve therapeutic and corrective purposes, raising questions about the limits of their permissibility from the perspective of Islamic law. This article analyzes medical aesthetic procedures based on Islamic legal principles, considering both medical aspects and sharia provisions. The study was conducted through a literature review of scientific sources on medical aesthetics and of Islamic legal sources, including the fatwas of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) on Botox, thread lifts, and fillers. The literature was analyzed descriptively, considering the purpose and indication of each procedure, the materials used, safety, benefits and harms, and the form of physical change produced. The findings show that the legal ruling on medical aesthetic procedures cannot be determined solely by the type of procedure. Procedures with therapeutic or corrective purposes, such as correcting abnormalities, scars, or disturbing conditions, are permissible as long as they meet the provisions of the sharia. Conversely, procedures aimed solely at altering a normal body to attain a particular beauty standard are subject to stricter limits. The halal status of materials, safety, the competence of medical personnel, and the absence of harm, deception, and dependence are important considerations. Thus, the legal assessment of medical aesthetics is contextual, based on the characteristics and purposes of each procedure while integrating scientific evidence and sharia principles.