We live in a virtual world. That means we live in a visual world. And the more we live through images, the more both men and women are taking extra steps to maintain and improve their appearance.
Yet, nobody wants to look like they’ve “had work done.” Thus, the demand for plastic surgery that appears more natural and even undetectable is on the rise. And patients no longer experience a stigma about advertising that they’ve had a procedure.
In fact, plastic surgery has become mainstream in a way it never was before. And several forces have collided to make this happen.
The Reasons Plastic Surgery Has Become Mainstream
It’s not uncommon to hear people talk about using Botox. This is partially because it’s used for multiple applications that go beyond plastic surgery.
But it’s also because it’s now commonplace, along with dermal fillers, as med-spas surge in urban and suburban areas. And influencers on social media are no longer embarrassed to disclose they’ve used these.
In fact, influencers and celebrities alike are far more open about cosmetic procedures and even going under the knife – all in the name of looking (and of course, feeling) better. This has given regular ‘everyday’ people permission to do the same.
Still, it does beg the question – why has plastic surgery become so mainstream? The following have been big contributors:
- Advances in Technology
Technology in every industry seems to forge ahead. Plastic surgery is no exception. Technological innovations in the field have made procedures safer and less invasive while leaving fewer scars. In addition, the effectiveness of today’s medical devices and digital tools reduces downtime and recovery. This appeals to a wider demographic of busy people – including younger patients who regard these procedures as preventative. Speaking of which…
- Patients Are Skewing Younger
While the internet and social media have normalized plastic surgery procedures among the 40+ crowd, they’ve also demonstrated minimally invasive skin treatments such as lasers and injections for the Gen Z crowd.
Platforms like TikTok showcase the benefits of preventative procedures that are bringing in a crop of much younger patients. Don’t believe us? According to 2024 statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more than 142,000 people aged 20 to 29 got injections like Botox, with more than 141,000 getting hyaluronic acid fillers.
- The Popularity of GLP-1s
This is a big one.
The rapid weight loss experienced by patients using GLP-1s often leaves them with excess, loose skin on the body and/or face. This has driven the demand for tummy tucks, breast and arm lifts, fillers, fat transfers, and facelifts. Collectively, these have come to be known as ‘Ozempic Makeovers.’
As these drugs have become increasingly accessible and normalized, the stigma around aesthetic enhancement has decreased. And people are open and forthright on social media (and elsewhere) about tweaking their results with the help of plastic surgery.
- More Men Are Embracing Plastic Surgery
Men have typically outnumbered women in hair restoration (which can be performed through plastic surgery with plasma-rich platelets (PRP)). But as men are paying more attention to their appearance, they are more frequently seeking plastic surgery procedures for post-weight loss maintenance and facial modifications.
Step Up and Do Something Good for Yourself
As plastic surgery has become mainstream, the previous stigma around it has melted away.
So if you’re struggling with some aspect of your appearance that diet and exercise can’t seem to remedy, contact us today to set up a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons.
And move into the next season/holiday/gathering with confidence and pride for doing something SO good for yourself.