This report explores the influence of influencer posts featuring paid collaborations for cosmetic surgeries on social media followers. Building upon the investigative SVT documentary "Priset vi betalar" by journalist Frida Söderlund, the documentary delves into the world of influencers and the dynamics behind their accounts. While the documentary primarily focuses on the influence of paid collaborations on the influencers themselves, this research shifts the focus towards the reception and impact of these messages and posts on the audience.

The previously mentioned documentary predominantly examined sponsored posts for cosmetic surgeries from the perspective of influencers, neglecting a qualitative exploration of how individuals who view these posts perceive and are affected by them. The study aims to address this gap by investigating the experiences and responses of 18-25-year-old students at Linnaeus University in Kalmar, Sweden, who are exposed to influencer content featuring paid collaborations for cosmetic surgeries. Drawing from theories such as Giddens' theory of structuration, uses and gratifications, and parasocial relationships, the research aims to deepen our understanding of the perceived authority of influencers in relation to cosmetic surgeries and its impact on audience trust.

A semi-structured interview methodology was employed, involving eight participants. The interviews were structured around three themes: media habits, the relationship with influencers, and perceptions of cosmetic surgeries. Through these interviews, the study explores how followers receive and interpret influencer messages related to paid collaborations for cosmetic surgeries.

The findings indicate that followers are negatively affected by the presence of paid collaborations for cosmetic surgeries on social media, primarily in terms of their critical stance towards the marketing practices employed by clinics and influencers. However, the research also highlights a broader influence of cosmetic surgeries on the participants, beyond the context of paid collaborations. Participants expressed being influenced by influencers who showcase their own appearance on social media, suggesting that exposure to such content impacts individuals in various ways.

This study contributes to the existing literature by examining the impact of paid collaborations for cosmetic surgeries from the perspective of social media followers. The findings provide insights into the reception of influencer content and its effects on audience attitudes and behaviors. The research underscores the need for critical evaluation of marketing practices surrounding cosmetic surgeries and emphasizes the role of influencers in shaping audience perceptions and trust.