Update: Instagram Removes Cosmetic Surgery Filters

In a move designed to promote mental well being, Instagram, owned by Facebook, is removing all augmented reality filters that depict cosmetic surgery.

In addition, the social media giant is striking all effects from the gallery that are associated with plastic surgery and postponing the approval of new such effects, according to the Spark AR platform, the company behind Instagram’s face filters.

Plastic surgery patients often arrive at their consults equipped with a host of filtered photos to best communicate and illustrate their expectations. A patient’s desire to look more like their filtered self has been dubbed “Snapchat dysmorphia.” Other research has suggested that use of some Instagram photo filters is associated with greater acceptance of plastic surgery.

In related news, Instagram is restricting people under the age of 18 from seeing posts that promote weight loss products or types of cosmetic surgery. The social media giant will strike down posts that make a miraculous claim about diet or weight loss products as well as those linked to a commercial offer such as a discount code.