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As reported by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), approximately 16 million cosmetic procedures are carried out each year in the United States. While women represent a significant 92% of these surgeries, the number of men opting for plastic surgery is steadily growing.
Among the most sought-after procedures are liposuction, rhytidectomy (commonly referred to as a “facelift”), rhinoplasty (or “nose job”), blepharoplasty (“eyelid surgery”), abdominoplasty (popularly known as a “tummy tuck”), breast augmentation for women, and breast reduction for both men and women.
This article highlights the top 10 plastic surgeries frequently performed on both females and males, based on the ASPS data.
Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure designed to remove fat from targeted areas of the body, such as the abdomen or thighs, to help achieve a more streamlined and toned appearance.
Recovery from liposuction is typically quick. Most individuals can resume work within a few days, depending on the extent of the procedure and their personal healing process.
Breast augmentation, a surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the size and shape of a woman’s breasts, has seen a remarkable rise in popularity. With over 300,000 procedures performed annually in the United States, it remains a sought-after option for those seeking aesthetic transformation.
Common Reasons for Breast Augmentation: Women pursue breast augmentation for various personal and medical reasons, such as:
Silicone Implants on the Rise: Silicone implants, once restricted due to health concerns, have made a strong comeback in recent years. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reports that 84% of women who underwent breast augmentation in 2020 chose silicone implants, reflecting their growing popularity.
Recovery and Return to Normal Life: Most individuals can resume daily activities within one to two weeks after surgery. However, engaging in high-impact physical activities, such as intense workouts or sports, may require a longer recovery period, often several weeks to months.
With modern advancements and personalized options, breast augmentation continues to empower women to feel confident in their bodies while achieving their aesthetic goals.
Blepharoplasty refers to a surgical procedure designed to reshape the eyelids, enhancing both function and appearance. This popular surgery typically falls into two main categories, which are often performed simultaneously:
Upper Blepharoplasty: Elevating the Eyelids: Commonly known as an eyelid lift, this procedure serves dual purposes. It may be done for cosmetic enhancement or to improve vision when drooping upper eyelids hinder eyesight.
Lower Blepharoplasty: Addressing Under-Eye Bags: This technique targets the removal of fat pads responsible for the appearance of “bags” beneath the eyes. The procedure may also involve tightening the overlying skin to minimize sagging, offering a refreshed and youthful look.
Following the surgery, most individuals feel confident enough to resume public activities within 10 to 14 days. However, it’s essential to note that the complete resolution of swelling and bruising might take several additional weeks.
Abdominoplasty, often referred to as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure designed to eliminate surplus skin from the abdominal region while tightening the skin that remains. This operation is particularly common among individuals dealing with a sagging midsection after pregnancy or significant weight reduction achieved through dieting or surgical methods.
The best candidates for abdominoplasty are those who have an excess of loose, hanging skin in the abdominal area rather than a considerable amount of belly fat.
Most individuals can return to their regular routines within two to three weeks following a tummy tuck. However, engaging in intense physical activities might need to be postponed for several additional weeks or even months.
Reduction mammaplasty, more commonly referred to as breast reduction surgery, is not only sought after for aesthetic reasons but also offers a range of practical and health benefits. Women with excessively large or heavy breasts often struggle to find clothing that fits comfortably and face ongoing challenges like persistent back and neck pain due to the added weight.
This procedure is also an effective way to address uneven breast sizes, providing balance and symmetry.
As a long-term solution for oversized or disproportionate breasts, reduction mammaplasty can significantly enhance physical comfort and overall quality of life. Most individuals are typically able to resume work and daily activities within two weeks following the surgery.
Rhinoplasty, often referred to as a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure designed to reshape the nose and harmonize its appearance with the facial structure. This procedure can involve reducing the overall size of the nose or refining specific features to enhance its proportions.
In some cases, rhinoplasty is combined with a procedure called septoplasty, which addresses a deviated septum—a condition where the nasal passage is misaligned, potentially causing breathing difficulties. When performed for medical reasons like this, insurance may cover part or all of the surgical costs.
While noticeable bruising is common after rhinoplasty, it typically diminishes within approximately 10 days.
A rhytidectomy, commonly known as a facelift, is a surgical procedure designed to address wrinkles and sagging skin caused by aging. By carefully tightening facial skin, a facelift enhances a more youthful appearance, smooths out deep creases, and reduces drooping areas.
This procedure is often paired with other enhancements, such as blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), platysmaplasty (neck lift), or skin resurfacing treatments like chemical peels.
Typically, sutures are removed within five to ten days following the surgery, but the full recovery process can take several weeks.
Mastopexy, often referred to as a breast lift, is a procedure designed to improve the appearance of sagging or misshapen breasts. It involves repositioning the breasts to achieve a more elevated and youthful contour.
Many individuals consider a breast lift after undergoing substantial weight loss or noticing changes in their breasts following pregnancy, which can lead to a less firm and droopy appearance. For some, combining a breast lift with breast augmentation provides enhanced results and meets their aesthetic goals.
Recovery from mastopexy is typically swift, with most patients returning to work within two weeks and resuming all physical activities after about four weeks.
Browplasty, often referred to as a “brow lift,” works similarly to a facelift by tightening the skin on the forehead to reduce wrinkles and smooth out creases. This procedure is designed to address issues such as drooping eyebrows, “hooded” eyelids, furrowed foreheads, and frown lines.
Unlike a facelift, a brow lift focuses more specifically on the upper face, making it less likely to alter the horizontal appearance of the eyes. Additionally, it typically avoids the “windblown” effect that some individuals experience after a facelift.
Most patients can return to their regular activities within 10 days after undergoing a brow lift. However, if the procedure is combined with other facial surgeries, the recovery period may take longer.
Male breast reduction surgery, known as reduction mammoplasty, is a common procedure designed to address the excess breast tissue associated with gynecomastia. This condition results from an imbalance in male and female hormones and can lead to abnormal breast enlargement. While it frequently occurs in older men, it can also affect younger males and even boys.
Unlike female breast reduction, male reduction mammoplasty focuses on removing nearly all excess fat and glandular tissue in the chest. This allows for better definition of the pectoral muscles, resulting in a firmer and more sculpted chest appearance.
Surgeons typically perform the procedure by making a discreet incision around the nipple, ensuring minimal visibility of scars.
Recovery is often straightforward, with most patients able to resume work within a week. Normal physical activities can usually be reintroduced within a few weeks, helping individuals quickly return to their daily lives with renewed confidence.
Plastic surgery has become an integral part of the modern pursuit of self-improvement, offering solutions to enhance aesthetics, restore functionality, and boost confidence. With procedures like liposuction, rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, and facelifts topping the list, people of all ages and genders are exploring these options to meet their unique goals. Each procedure is tailored to individual needs, ensuring personalized outcomes that align with one’s expectations.
While advancements in surgical techniques and technology have made these procedures safer and more accessible, understanding the recovery timelines, potential risks, and long-term benefits is essential. Consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon is crucial for achieving the best results while maintaining health and safety. Whether driven by cosmetic desires or medical necessity, plastic surgery continues to empower individuals to feel more comfortable and confident in their skin.
What are the most common plastic surgery procedures?
The most common plastic surgery procedures include liposuction, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), breast augmentation, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), and abdominoplasty (tummy tuck). These surgeries cater to a variety of aesthetic and functional needs.
How long is the recovery period for plastic surgery?
Recovery times vary depending on the procedure. For example, liposuction and blepharoplasty may have shorter recovery periods of a few weeks, while more extensive surgeries like abdominoplasty or facelifts might take several weeks to months for complete healing.
Are plastic surgery procedures safe?
When performed by a board-certified and experienced plastic surgeon, most procedures are safe. It is essential to follow pre- and post-operative care instructions to minimize risks and ensure optimal results.
Can men undergo plastic surgery?
Absolutely. Men increasingly opt for procedures like gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction), rhinoplasty, and liposuction. Many men seek plastic surgery to enhance their appearance, improve physical comfort, or boost self-esteem.
What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery?
Cosmetic surgery focuses on enhancing appearance, while reconstructive surgery addresses medical conditions, injuries, or deformities to restore function and appearance. Examples of reconstructive procedures include cleft palate repair and breast reconstruction after mastectomy.
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It’s strange to consider rhinoplasty purely cosmetic since the only people I know who’ve had it are rugby players and boxers.
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I know some might disagree, but I believe many K-pop idols showcase how plastic surgery can transform someone from average or slightly above average to stunningly beautiful. While a few may end up looking unnatural or overdone, most results are, in my opinion, skillfully executed and impressive. Nana from After School is a prime example that comes to mind.
