BBC News Online: World: Africa

SA plastic surgery web auction

Cosmetic surgery is big business in South Africa and the average price for breast reduction surgery, which is Monday's offering, is normally about 14,000 rand ($2,000).

Every day this week a different type of plastic surgery is being offered, with bids starting at less than $0.50.

"Today's crazy auction is reduction mammoplasty," the website said alongside a bid form.

Ethics

On Wednesday it will be liposuction and on Thursday the online auction will consider bids for nose and chin hair removal.

The procedures will be carried out by some of South Africa's leading plastic surgeons at the Park Lane clinic, one of Johannesburg's leading private medical institutions.

Medical company Netcare, which is behind the auction, said it had consulted lawyers to ensure the medical code of ethics was being respected.

"We chose cosmetic surgery because medical aid companies do not pay for it," said Netcare chief executive Jack Shevel.

The scheme is likely to promote South Africa's image as a global centre for plastic surgery.

Some travel agents already offer plastic surgery holidays for tourists who want to combine a bit of sightseeing with a nose job.

And wedding magazines offer cut-price deals for brides and grooms who are searching for the perfect profile on their big day.