Submitted by Twin City Plastic Surgery
When you think of cosmetic surgery, the first thing that may come to mind is that female celebrity’s latest facelift, nose job, or breast enhancement. However, in the past few years, there has been an increasing demand for these aesthetically-enhancing procedures among the male population.
The rise in male cosmetic surgery may be a result of the large number of baby boomers who are now in their 50s and 60s, coupled with the fact that the aging population is now taking better care of themselves than ever before. In 2015, men accounted for 1.2 million of the more than 11 million cosmetic surgeries performed nationwide, a number that has increased by 325 percent since 1997. The majority of males having cosmetic procedures are between the ages of 35 and 64, and as it is for women, some procedures are more popular than others.
According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the most common types of cosmetic surgeries performed on males are:
Blepharoplasty
A “hooding” of the upper eyelid skin and under-eye bagginess can be minimalized with a procedure called blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery. The incisions to the upper eyelid can be hidden in the natural eyelid crease, and the lower incision just below the lash line or within the lower eye line sill. This procedure, though done in a matter of millimeters, can drastically change the appearance around the eyes, and in the cases of some, increase the peripheral vision once inhibited by sagging upper eyelids.
Breast Reduction
Gynecomastia is an overdevelopment of the male breast. Male breast reduction is one of the few procedures that is performed not only on middle-aged men, but on younger men who may experience the feminizing effect of excess fat and skin of the breast. Whether due to genetics, hormone changes or weight reduction, this procedure flattens and firms the chest to be more consistent with male body contours.
Liposuction
Love handles are an oxymoron to many men, and liposuction is a popular cosmetic procedure that removes fat that is resistant to diet and exercise. In addition to excess fat around the middle, liposuction is also used to treat double chins, abdominal fat, and gynecomastia. Ideal candidates for this procedure should be in good health and within a reasonable weight, as well as have good skin elasticity.
Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a “nose job,” is more popular now with males, perhaps due to the relaxed stigma of the procedure itself. It can involve correction or restructuring of the nose, enhancing the shape, or repairing a respiratory issue. Many men may be seeking repair of an old injury due to a sport or other activity. Others, just like women, want to not only improve their health and body image but their facial appearance as well.
Non-surgical options
Men are also taking advantage of the non-surgical cosmetic procedures available — treatments that are less invasive and require little or no down time. BOTOX®, hyaluronic acid (Juvedérm™), and dermal fillers, as well as laser hair removal services and microdermabrasion to exfoliate skin round out some of the most requested non-surgical procedures among both men and women.
Choosing a cosmetic surgeon
As with any medical procedure, it’s important to take care when choosing a cosmetic surgeon. According to the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a key point is board certification. Surgeons who are board certified by the ABPS have completed rigorous training exclusively in cosmetic surgery and patient care, and will only operate in accredited hospitals and surgical centers.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions like “How long have you been performing this procedure?” “Am I a good candidate?” and “What will my recovery and recovery timeline look like?” Ask to see before and after pictures of patients, and if computer images are available to view your personal potential outcome. Finally, make sure he or she is open to your questions and explains the procedure clearly and respectfully.
Cosmetic surgery is most often a choice, and the decision is a personal one. Those interested in exploring cosmetic surgery must go into the process understanding that it will not solve your problems or make you look completely different — but it may give you more self-confidence and give you a fresh start to a better sense of well being.
Board-certified plastic surgeons Laura C. Randolph, Chad Tattini, and Paige Holt, along with their professional and compassionate staff, comprise Twin City Plastic Surgery. Their office is located in Bloomington at 2502 East Empire Street, Suite C, one mile east of Veterans Parkway. For more information or to schedule an appointment, you may call 309-662-6772 or visit them online at www.twincityplasticsurgery.com.