Throughout history, the world has looked up to America's First Ladies for a variety of reasons. Eleanor Roosevelt was the first to be outspoken, fighting for civil and women's rights. Jackie O had an impeccable sense of style and an unparalleled elegance. Who could forget Nancy Regan's "Just Say No" to drugs campaign. Well it seems Michelle Obama is an inspiration of a completely different sort.
Forget about her amazing "Let's Move!" anti-obesity campaign. Women are most captivated by Mrs. Obama's incredibly toned arms. Apparently, they are so coveted, it has sparked a plastic surgery trend. More women than ever before are opting for brachioplasty (aka arm lipo). According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 300 women opted or the procedure in 2000. Last year, 15,000 got their bat wings surgically removed. That's a whopping 4000% increase.
We are accustomed to hearing about all the women rushing to doctor's offices with photos of Hollywood's biggest celebs in hand. Though this may be the first time a First Lady has topped a list for the most desired body part of any kind. Jennifer Aniston was a close second, following by Jessica Biel, Demi Moore, and Kelly Ripa. (Poor Madonna. She used to rule the arms race, but didn't make the cut this time.)
This is certainly an extreme choice, but I can't blame any woman for making it. When you wave, the only thing that should move is your hand, not a bunch of flabby skin under your arms. Those dreaded bat wings make wearing sleeveless tanks and sundresses an absolute nightmare. I would love to have Michelle Obama's arms too -- though I might try a few arm curls first?
Would you get arm lipo if you could?
Image via cliff1066a/Flickr