More Chinese youth go under knife

In a plastic surgery department of a hospital in central China's Hubei Province, Xiao Li is consulting a doctor over plans for double eyelid surgery and a nose job.

Though still in her first year of graduate school, Xiao Li told us this is all part of her preparation for job hunting.

SOUNDBITE (CHINESE) XIAO LI:

"Improving my looks will make me feel more confident. I believe I will have better career prospects after taking the surgery."

Xiao Li said cosmetic surgery is now very popular with Chinese youth and many of her classmates have already gone under the knife.

SOUNDBITE (CHINESE) DENG QIAN, Plastic surgeon:

"In recent years, more and more students will undergo plastic surgery during their summer vacations. Now students account for 80 percent of our total clients during the summer. Many opt for nose jobs, eyelid surgery and liposuction. They believe the surgery will put them at a vantage position in job hunting or finding a boy or girl friend. "

Chinese parents today now appear to have changed their attitude towards cosmetic surgery. Many believing good looks are untapped resources in a highly competitive job market.

But doctors say plastic surgery is not for everyone, warning that health and safety considerations should always come first.