Social Media’s Influence on Plastic Surgery
The number of requests for plastic surgery is increasing year after year, and one primary reason is the growth of social media. A poll conducted by the American Academy of Facial and Reconstructive Surgery shows surgeons are seeing more than a 30 percent increase in the number of patients interested in plastic surgery to improve their image on social media.
Social media, particularly the “selfie”, has dramatically increased self-awareness translating into more patients seeking to improve their appearance. This trend was first documented in 2013 but continued into 2014 and by all accounts will increase throughout 2015. The advent of a device called the “selfie stick” – an extendable metal rod that attaches to a smartphone and allows for a wider variety of selfie shots – has only further promoted the self-awareness that leads to more plastic surgery requests.
Another new wave of technology having an impact on plastic surgery trends are smartphone apps that can be used to alter images to create a different appearance. These apps can be as simple as a filter that changes the shading on an image, or they can apply artificial makeup and remove wrinkles.
The plastic surgery procedures so far seeing the largest increase in numbers attributed to the selfie craze include rhinoplasty, hair transplants, and eyelid surgery. Each of these procedures and many more are capable of providing a rejuvenated appearance and even addressing very specific cosmetic concerns.
However, it is important to remember that plastic surgery isn’t right for everyone and attempting to improve one’s appearance for the wrong reasons can be an unfulfilling experience.
At the Perk Plastic Surgery, we want to do all we can to help our patients realize their true potential. If you’re considering a cosmetic procedure for any reason, schedule a consultation and we’ll get you on your way to realizing a rejuvenated appearance you will be proud to show off!
By Devin Swift
