Whether you are all about Insta, only chat on Snap or remain faithful to Facebook, your social media obsession may lead you from virtual edits with flattering filters to consults with an actual facial plastic surgeon — if it hasn’t already.
This is one of the bigger takeaways from the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery’s (AAFPRS) 2017 annual survey, and it’s not the first time that this group has documented such ‘selfie awareness.’
In 2017, 55 percent of facial plastic surgeons saw patients who wanted to look better in selfies; up 13 percent from 2016.
“Consumers are a swipe away from finding love and a new look, and this movement is only going to get stronger,” says AAFPRS President and Easthampton, MA-based facial plastic surgeon William H. Truswell, MD, in a news release.
And once they’ve taken the plunge, these same individuals are taking to social media to share their recovery journey — hiccups and all.
“More and more of our patients are using social media as a forum to gain a sense of solidarity when under-going a major, potentially life-changing procedure,” Dr. Truswell says.
Looking better in selfies is one reason that people are considering nips and tucks, but it’s certainly not the only one.
Close to 60 percent of facial plastic surgeons say that the desire to stay relevant and competitive at work is what motivated facial plastic surgery seekers. Others were considering eyelid procedures to look less tired.
So now that you know the why, here’s the what:
BOTOX® (Allergan), along with Dysport® (Galderma) and Xeomin® (Merz) hold on to their title of the most popular minimally invasive procedures for both women and men, followed by fillers such as Juvederm and skin treatments.
In the surgery category, rhinoplasty leads the pack, again, followed by eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and facelifts.
Regardless of what specifically drove the crowds to facial plastic surgeons’ offices in 2017, everyone agrees that finding a doctor who they can trust is the primary concern when considering cosmetic surgery. Choosing a board-certified surgeon who specializes in plastic surgery of the face, head and neck is one of the best ways to minimize any risks while maximizing your satisfaction. Research providers and treatment information via trusted online sources, review before/after images and don’t be afraid to ask tough questions about background and credentials.
Start your search for a qualified facial plastic surgeon now
For more info, check out our slideshow on selfie-improvement treatments