According to the latest report of British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), men now represent 7% of all cosmetic surgery procedures, showcasing a dramatic 118% increase from 2021. This surge in interest is not limited to a single type of procedure; rather, it spans a variety of surgeries. The most sought-after procedures among men include rhinoplasty, with a 45% increase, chest reduction, which has seen a staggering 158% rise, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), up by 105%, liposuction, with a 150% surge, and otoplasty (ear correction), experiencing a 72% increase.
This trend underscores a growing acceptance and desire among men to pursue aesthetic enhancements. In this blog, Chester Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna will discuss the specifics of the UK’s most popular plastic surgery procedures for men.
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Plastic surgery is no longer a domain exclusive to women. In recent years, there has been a noticeable uptick in the number of men turning to cosmetic procedures to enhance their physical appearance.
The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) has provided compelling statistics that illustrate this trend vividly. Men now account for 7% of all cosmetic surgery procedures, marking an impressive 118% increase from 2021. Among the most popular procedures, rhinoplasty saw a 45% increase, chest reduction surged by 158%, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) rose by 105%, liposuction increased by 150%, and otoplasty (ear correction) went up by 72%. These figures underscore a significant shift towards male cosmetic surgery, highlighting the growing demand and acceptance of such procedures among men.
Several factors contribute to the rising popularity of plastic surgery among men, including:
In the landscape of male cosmetic surgery, certain procedures have surged in popularity, reflecting the diverse aesthetic goals and concerns of men today. From refining facial features to sculpting the body, these surgeries offer impressive outcomes that can significantly impact an individual’s self-perception and confidence. Here’s a closer look at the most popular procedures among men, shedding light on what they entail and why they’re in high demand:
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as nose reshaping surgery, is a procedure designed to alter the shape, size, or proportions of the nose. It can address a range of concerns, from aesthetic issues like bumps, asymmetry, or size, to functional problems such as breathing difficulties due to structural defects.
The nose is a central feature of the face, and even minor adjustments can dramatically enhance facial harmony and balance. For many men, rhinoplasty offers a way to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing nose that complements their facial features, boosting their confidence and self-image. Additionally, the ability to correct breathing issues makes this procedure doubly appealing, combining cosmetic and health benefits.
Gynaecomastia surgery addresses the condition of enlarged male breasts, which can result from hormonal imbalances, genetics, obesity, or the use of certain medications. The procedure involves liposuction to remove excess fat and, if necessary, the excision of glandular tissue to create a flatter, more traditionally masculine chest contour.
The emotional and psychological impact of gynaecomastia can be profound, affecting self-esteem, social interactions, and physical comfort. Men who undergo this surgery often report a significant improvement in their quality of life, as it allows them to feel more confident in their appearance and engage in activities they might have previously avoided due to embarrassment or discomfort.
Liposuction is a body contouring procedure that removes excess fat from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, and back. It involves the insertion of a thin tube, or cannula, through small incisions to loosen and vacuum out fat. The procedure can sculpt more defined body contours and is often combined with other surgeries for enhanced results.
The appeal of liposuction lies in its ability to target stubborn fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. For many men, achieving a toned, athletic appearance is a key aesthetic goal, and liposuction offers a direct route to this outcome. Its versatility and effectiveness in refining body contours make it a popular choice among men seeking to enhance their physical appearance and confidence.
Blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, and is designed to remove excess skin, fat, and muscle to correct droopy eyelids and under-eye bags. This surgery can rejuvenate the eye area, making you look more rested and alert.
The eyes are often the first area to show signs of ageing, and changes in this area can significantly affect one’s overall appearance. Eyelid surgery is popular among men because it offers a relatively straightforward solution to refresh and rejuvenate the face, contributing to a more youthful, energetic look. The procedure’s ability to improve vision obscured by drooping eyelids further adds to its appeal.
Otoplasty is aimed at reshaping the ears, typically to reduce their prominence or to correct deformities. The procedure involves sculpting the cartilage to achieve the desired shape and position, often bringing the ears closer to the head or reducing their size.
Ears that protrude or are misshapen can be a source of self-consciousness from a young age. Ear correction surgery offers a permanent solution to these concerns, leading to improved self-esteem and freedom from the psychological burden of feeling the need to hide one’s ears. Its popularity stems from the profound impact it can have on an individual’s confidence and social interactions.
These procedures represent the foundation of male cosmetic surgery, each addressing specific aesthetic or functional concerns with the potential to significantly enhance quality of life. As societal norms continue to evolve, the demand for these surgeries among men is likely to grow, reflecting a broader acceptance of cosmetic enhancement as a legitimate choice for anyone seeking to improve their appearance and self-confidence.