Cosmetic surgery is more popular than ever before. In the last 15 years it has grown into a booming industry, sought out by women and men of all ages and all backgrounds. True, there is not the same stigma surrounding aesthetic surgery as there was 15 years ago, and this acceptance has fuelled the rise and rise of cosmetic surgery. But what factors have caused this turnaround?
A survey conducted by Female First in the UK looked to leading private hospital group BMI Healthcare to provide some answers. They came up with five potential reasons.
The media spotlight
With the rise of reality TV – where stars are happy to discuss cosmetic surgery and some programs are even based on cosmetic surgery makeovers – the motivations and expectations in undergoing cosmetic surgery have been relayed (somewhat first-hand!) to the wider public.
While popular exposure and celebrity endorsement should not be a reason for deciding to undergo cosmetic surgery, the survey revealed that this prolific media exposure has gone some way in changing the acceptance of cosmetic surgery in the wider population.
Non-invasive technologies
The BMI survey suggested the availability of non-surgical treatments, such as anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers, has helped transform cosmetic surgery into a regular staple of the modern-day beauty regime.
Non-invasive procedures involve less down time than their surgical counterparts, and can act to bridge the gap to more invasive surgeries. While all cosmetic procedures carry risk, and a consultation with an experienced doctor is necessary in undergoing any procedure, non-invasive therapies have become a widely-used stepping stone into the arena of cosmetic surgery.
Digital imagery
2013 was dubbed the “year of the selfie” and with the rise of digital imagery came an increased awareness of self-image and the way we look on-camera.
Several studies – including the Female First survey – suggest this sudden amplified interest in self-exposure triggered an increased desire to improve our appearance – using everything from Instagram filters to cosmetic surgery.
While cosmetic surgery should not be looked to as a solution to restore confidence and self-image, the sharing of images via social media has made us more aware of our appearance and more willing to explore potential ways to enhance our best assets.
Availability
Alongside a growth in popularity, cosmetic surgery has also experienced a rise in availability. The opening of clinics, in all areas across Australia and the world, has meant cosmetic surgery is no longer solely the domain of the rich and famous – it is available in most areas, across range of demographics.
Breaking taboo
We are more willing than ever before to discuss cosmetic surgery with friends, family and also in the public domain. Positive messages surrounding cosmetic surgery have contributed to public education surrounding the different options in cosmetic surgery and what to expect going into treatment.
A change in attitude in the industry itself – moving towards natural-looking results in all procedures, from breast augmentation to facelifting – has transformed cosmetic surgery into a more agreeable, talked-about and popular option for patients of all ages.
