The face of plastic surgery is changing. What was once seen as only procedures rich folks underwent behind closed doors, and celebrities behind even tighter shut doors are becoming more mainstream.
If there is something on your body that you would like to change, chances are you probably can. New techniques are making the recovery period shorter, encouraging more patients to seek out their greatest appearance desire.
One in 20 U.S. women has undergone a plastic surgery procedure. Although this number can be considered large, men are not trailing far behind. What was once the realm of women-only, has become a gender-less nuance, an opportunity to change for both sexes.
The number of male-driven procedures has increased by 43 percent over the past five years, according to The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). The most popular surgeries among men include eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty, and liposuction. Almost 40 percent of all Google searches about cosmetic surgery were sent by men.
Although the amount of male plastic surgery patients continues to rise, their willingness to come forward with their desires is not. Many men do not want to admit to these changes, often due to their reasoning of why the surgery is needed. These include a desire to get ahead at work, remain young and relevant as well as maintaining a prime spot in the dating field.
According to the New York Times Style Magazine, Americans spent $2,475,908,568 on Botox treatments in 2014. This is an increase of 748 percent since 2000. Male breast reduction has also increased, with 33 percent more surgeries performed since 2010. In addition, buttock augmentations are also on the rise, with 86 percent more performed in 2014.
Half of those who undergo plastic surgery procedures are repeat customers. These patients may be undergoing procedures that take more than one surgery or may have a list of appearance-based changes they want to make.
In terms of age, the procedures of choice vary.
- Women 19-34 prefer breast augmentations
- Women 35-64 prefer liposuction
- Women ages 65 and older are often the most interested in facelifts.
Although the number of plastic surgery procedures in the U.S. may seem staggering, there are other countries that undergo almost as many. The top four other countries that performed the most surgeries include Brazil, Japan, South Korea, and Mexico.
Who exactly do patients wish to resemble most? Many patients still want to look like themselves, and instead want a part or parts of their body enhanced. Other patients though, want to resemble famous celebrities. The most frequently asked for celebrity features include Kim Kardashian’s butt, Olivia Munn’s eyes, and Scarlett Johansson’s lips.
If you’re not ready to make a personal change, just know that U.S. dog owners spent $62 million in 2011 on plastic surgery for Fido and other pets.
If you’re interested in learning more about plastic surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lett.