What Does the Torah Say About Beauty, Surgery, and Piercings?

Judaism teaches that our bodies are not our own to harm. They are a gift from Hashem, entrusted to us to care for and protect. As it says in the Torah (Genesis 9:5), “And surely your blood of your lives will I require.” From this and other verses, our sages learn that we are not allowed to injure ourselves or others. (See Bava Kamma 91b and Rambam, Laws of Injury and Damage 5:1)

Striking another Jew is a serious transgression. The Torah warns (Deuteronomy 25:3), “Lest he add and beat him more,” and this can lead to a punishment of lashes. (Rambam, Negative Commandments 300; Choshen Mishpat 420)

The Talmud also teaches that even raising your hand to hit someone is wrong. Resh Lakish says that just lifting a hand to strike without actually hitting, is already called “wicked,” as it says in Exodus 2:13: “Why do you strike your neighbor?” The verse doesn’t say “did strike” but “do strike,” meaning the intention alone is considered serious. Rabbi Chanina says such a person is a sinner. Rav Huna goes further and says the hand should be cut off. Rabbi Elazar says the person deserves burial, which Rashi explains as meaning the sin is so great that only death could atone. Rabbi Chanina also taught that striking another Jew’s face is like striking the face of the Shechinah, the Divine Presence. (Sanhedrin 58b)

Some authorities even held that a person who hits another falls under ancient excommunication and shouldn’t be counted in a minyan (prayer quorum) until they are released from this status. Others say this isn’t practiced the same way today, but either way, the act must be condemned and not taken lightly. Each case should be judged carefully by a qualified rav (Torah scholar), but the message is clear: Judaism strongly values peace, unity, and mutual respect. (Choshen Mishpat 420–421; Pitchei Teshuva)

What About Plastic Surgery?

With all of this in mind, is it allowed to undergo cosmetic surgery especially when it’s not for a medical issue, but for appearance?

The answer, surprisingly to some, is yes, under certain conditions.

A girl who has a noticeable physical issue that affects her appearance and makes it hard for her to find a marriage partner may have plastic surgery to improve her looks. This is also true for a married woman who wishes to look more attractive to her husband. In these cases, halacha (Jewish law) does not see this as harming the body, but as helping emotional wellbeing and dignity.

The same allowance applies to a man who has facial deformities or many blemishes that cause him embarrassment or harm his social confidence. Especially if this prevents him from meeting potential matches, surgery is permitted.

Since plastic surgery is typically done under anesthesia and involves no real pain during the procedure, and since it brings long-term benefits, it’s not seen as harmful. Rather, the gain outweighs the temporary discomfort. If the person is suffering emotionally from their appearance, that too is considered a form of pain. For women in particular, the emotional burden is often heavier due to societal pressures. So, helping someone feel more comfortable in public and within their family life is considered a real benefit.

Of course, such surgery must be done by a highly trained and experienced doctor to avoid unnecessary risks. But when performed safely, it’s not considered endangering the person’s life, especially since these procedures are now routine and have high rates of success. (Responsa Yabia Omer, Part 8, Choshen Mishpat 12)

What About Ear Piercings?

It is also completely permitted to pierce a girl's earlobes so she can wear earrings. This is not considered a form of self-harm, because it is a normal way to enhance beauty and self-expression, and it has long been accepted in Jewish communities. (Responsa Yabia Omer, Part 8, Choshen Mishpat 12:3)