Plastic surgery has long been associated with women, with countless magazines and media outlets focusing on the Face Lifts, Tummy tucks, or Mommy makeovers of female celebrities. However, times are changing. The taboo around plastic surgery for men is slowly fading away. More and more men are now considering and embracing the idea of going under the knife to improve their appearance and boost their self-confidence.
Why Was Plastic Surgery a Taboo for Men in the Past?
For years, there was a social stigma surrounding men and plastic surgery. It was often perceived as something only women would do to enhance their beauty. Society expected men to age gracefully, without any assistance from cosmetic procedures.
Some other factors, that made this taboo endure for so long, were:
- Lack of awareness about male issues,
- Fear of ridicule at opening up about body image issues,
- Lack of ‘ideal body’ images in public
The idea of a man altering his appearance through surgery was seen as emasculating. There was the fear of judgment and ridicule. Men were expected to be confident and secure in their natural bodies, regardless of any imperfections.
How Much Plastic Surgery Has Become an Option for Men?
In recent years, plastic surgery has become more accessible and acceptable for men. Men are increasingly becoming aware of the benefits and possibilities that plastic surgery can offer.
Surgeons have also started catering specifically to male patients. Today, men might still account for about 13% of all plastic surgery procedures. However, that percentage is on the rise.
Based on data from the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), there has been a significant rise in male cosmetic procedures over the years. Between 1997 and 2012, the number of male cosmetic procedures increased by more than 106%. In addition, nonsurgical procedures for men witnessed a staggering increase of over 250%. Some of the most popular nonsurgical procedures for men were:
- Microdermabrasion,
- Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia)
- Botox injections, and
- Laser hair removal from body and face
Why Plastic Surgery is Not a Taboo for Men Anymore?
There are various reasons for this:
1. Helps with some medical problems
Plastic surgery can address medical issues like gynecomastia, which causes the enlargement of male breast tissue. These can be effectively treated through surgery. Further, men who have undergone weight loss surgery may experience a dismal body shape. This can be corrected through procedures like body contouring.
2. To address signs of aging
Men, like women, are not immune to the effects of aging. As men age, they may notice sagging skin, wrinkles, and a tired appearance. Plastic surgery offers various treatments, like:
- Eyelid surgery,
- Facelifts, and
- Injectables
These help to rejuvenate their appearance and combat the signs of aging. With these procedures, men can regain a more youthful and refreshed look. It can boost their confidence levels.
3. To feel more confident about their bodies
Body image concerns are not limited to women. Men also struggle with body insecurities. Plastic surgery can be a perfect solution. It can help them feel more comfortable and confident.
Procedures like liposuction can remove stubborn fat deposits. Chest and abdominal sculpting can help create a more defined and masculine physique. These surgeries can have a transformative effect on a man’s self-esteem and overall well-being.
4. To impress others around them
In modern society, youthfulness and attractiveness are highly valued. Men are increasingly recognizing their appearance’s impact on their personal and professional lives. Plastic surgery offers them an opportunity to get a competitive edge in a society that values youth and vitality.
5. Increased awareness and acceptance
With the rise of social media, many celebrities and public figures are discussing their plastic surgery procedures openly. They have made plastic surgery look normal for the public. Men are realizing that plastic surgery is not something to be ashamed of.
Summing up..
Plastic surgery is no longer a taboo for men. Society’s perception and acceptance of male cosmetic procedures have evolved significantly. As the stigma fades away, more men are finding the courage to take control of their bodies and redefine their self-image through plastic surgery. However, it is important to trust only a reputed plastic surgery clinic for such procedures. If you wish to know more, feel free to contact Dr. Smiley, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills serving both men and women globally.
