Plastic surgery isn’t all about major changes and enhancements. Many have predicted that 2016 will be the year of slight aesthetic changes, natural modifications that bring out a patient’s best features, often with minimal downtime needed.
“By making slight facial or body changes, first impressions are often improved.”
What effect do slight changes actually have?
If patients are making the bare-bones changes to their appearance, will it actually make a difference? According to a recent study, the answer is yes, both for patients and those who interact with them on a daily basis.
The study, conducted by Steven Dayan, M.D., focuses on first impressions and the self-esteem that people have based on a range of life factors. By making slight changes, first impressions are often perceived as better overall, especially in terms of appearance.
For example, by using the dermal filler Botox to eliminate wrinkles around the eyes, the appearance takes on a more rejuvenated, youthful look, but it also widens the eyes. Wider, doe-like eyes have often been associated with younger generations, one that opens the face-up as a whole.
But how do we know this is true?
In a study published last year, those patients who had undergone treatment for crow’s feet around the eyes indicated an increase in overall self-perception, perceived appearance, tiredness, age, and life satisfaction.
Many similar studies have shown that even small changes can make a difference in patient’s lives, improving first impressions significantly in comparison to those who have chosen not to make a similar change.
Less is more, when performed correctly.
Some patients may think they are interested in a full facelift or other invasive procedure, when really a small, noninvasive change may be the best route. All of these issues and more can be discussed during your initial and subsequent consultations.