Cosmetic surgery’s rapidly growing prevalence is leaving a significant footprint on society at large. It’s a trend that’s becoming more prevalent and is far from reaching its apex. In this article, we delve into the rise of cosmetic procedures, the factors fuelling this growth, its impact on different age groups, and the essential steps for those considering such treatments.
Surge in Cosmetic Procedures: Numbers Tell the Tale
The past decade has witnessed an almost twofold increase in cosmetic procedures in the UK, with numbers leaping from 28,900 in 2005 to 51,000 in 2015, according to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). A crucial driver of this growth is the increasing number of celebrities who openly discuss their own cosmetic procedures. By doing so, high-profile personalities such as Kelly Rowland, Kylie Jenner, and Renee Zellweger have played a significant role in normalising these procedures. Experts like Contour Cosmetic Injectable Clinic experienced a strong increase in the industry in the last few years.
Social Media: Amplifying the Beauty Revolution
Arguably the most significant contributor to this beauty revolution is social media. Fans now enjoy unprecedented 24/7 access to their favourite celebrities through platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. This constant exposure to highly-curated and often enhanced images of celebrities has significantly increased the demand for cosmetic surgery.
In a survey of 1,212 respondents, a whopping 88% agreed that social media has been instrumental in popularising cosmetic surgery. In the spotlight are high-profile influencers like Kylie Jenner, who share their daily lives and showcase the results of their cosmetic procedures to their millions of followers.
Youth and Cosmetic Procedures: A Growing Concern
The increasing visibility of cosmetic procedures has not been without its repercussions, especially among younger demographics. There is a growing concern among body image campaigners and cosmetic surgeons about the impact this could have on the younger generation’s self-image.
Demand for injectable facial fillers and Botox is seeing a significant surge among young patients, with many attributing this to celebrity influence on social media. Young people are also increasingly seeking more invasive surgeries such as liposuction, breast augmentation, and buttock augmentation.
Plastic surgeon Michael Salzhauer noted, “Now, young people are undergoing cosmetic procedures because they are comparing themselves to models like Kylie Jenner and Kim Kardashian from different angles on social media.”
A Word of Caution: Reducing Social Media Consumption
The Royal Society of Public Health has warned about the potential detrimental effects of social media on young people’s mental health, with Instagram coming under particular scrutiny. They state that young people are often inundated with idealised, edited images, which can lead to poor body image and confidence.
BAAPS president elect Michael Cadier has also highlighted the potential dangers of young people resorting to permanent cosmetic procedures, advising them to explore other avenues first due to the life-long implications these surgeries can have.
Ensuring Safe Cosmetic Procedures
While the risks of cosmetic surgery, particularly at a young age, are clear, many still believe the potential benefits outweigh these risks. However, if one chooses to undergo such a procedure, it’s crucial to ensure the selection of a qualified practitioner.
Prospective patients are advised to seek recommendations from trusted sources, such as friends or family members who have undergone similar procedures. Reputable institutions like the General Medical Council’s specialist register, The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeons, and Royal College of Surgeons are also excellent sources of information.
Concluding Thoughts: Cosmetic Procedures – A Personal Choice
The revolution in beauty and cosmetic procedures reflects the changing norms of society. While social media and celebrity influence play a significant role in this trend, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks, especially for younger individuals. For those considering cosmetic procedures, thorough research, seeking advice from professionals, and opting for respected clinics are fundamental to a safe and satisfactory result.
In this age of aesthetic enhancements, making the right choice remains a personal decision – one that should be made carefully, considering all the potential outcomes. After all, cosmetic procedures are not just a question of beauty, but also one of health and well-being.
