While many people choose to undergo plastic surgery for personal and aesthetic reasons, a recent study reveals that the benefits of these procedures may reach beyond the mirror. According to new research, plastic surgery designed to refresh and rejuvenate the face can actually make you appear more likable, attractive, and socially skilled to others.
At Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery, we’ve long seen the confidence boost that cosmetic procedures offer our patients in Coralville and throughout Eastern Iowa. However, this new data suggests that the impact may also influence how others perceive your personality.
A Study on Plastic Surgery and Personality Perception
Published in JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery, the study included over 170 participants who were shown before-and-after photos of 30 women who had undergone various facial rejuvenation procedures, including:
- Facelifts
- Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
- Brow lifts
- Facial implants
To ensure unbiased opinions, each participant viewed only a single image of each patient, either the “before” or “after” photo, never both.
Participants were then asked to rate each woman based on eight different traits, including likeability, attractiveness, social skills, and trustworthiness.
You May Look Friendlier After Facial Surgery
Women who had undergone facial plastic surgery were perceived as:
- More likable
- More socially skilled
- More attractive
- More feminine
There was also a small increase in trustworthiness, though it was not statistically significant. Some participants even rated post-surgery patients as more adventurous or bold, likely due to subtle changes in facial expressions and symmetry.
Procedures like facelifts and eyelid surgery generated the most positive responses.
“Our faces are conveying these traits, even when we are not intending to,” said Dr. Michael J. Reilly, one of the study’s authors and a professor of facial reconstructive surgery at Georgetown University School of Medicine.
Why This Matters to Patients in Coralville, IA
While your primary motivation for pursuing cosmetic surgery may be to feel better about your appearance, it’s encouraging to know that these procedures can also positively influence how others see you. Whether you’re preparing for a career shift, re-entering the dating world, or simply want to match your outer appearance with your inner energy, facial plastic surgery may help open doors socially and professionally.
“Our faces are conveying these traits, even when we are not intending to,” Michael J. Reilly, assistant professor of facial reconstructive surgery at Georgetown University School of Medicine and co-author of the study, told the Washington Post. “All of our faces do this all of the time, but some of our faces are more prone to expressing an emotion.”
Is Facial Plastic Surgery Right for You?
Choosing to undergo plastic surgery in Coralville, IA, is a personal decision. Dr. Kahlil Andrews takes time to learn about your goals, answer your questions, and recommend procedures that align with your unique facial anatomy and lifestyle.
Whether you’re considering a facelift, eyelid surgery, or a combination of facial rejuvenation procedures, Dr. Andrews brings extensive surgical experience and an artistic eye to help you achieve a refreshed, natural-looking result.
Schedule Your Consultation in Coralville, IA
Ready to explore your facial plastic surgery options? Dr. Andrews Plastic, Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery proudly serves patients from Coralville, Iowa City, North Liberty, and Cedar Rapids. Call us at 319-220-4644 to book your private consultation and take the next step toward a more confident you.
Plastic Surgery FAQs
What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery?
Cosmetic plastic surgery is performed to enhance appearance and improve aesthetic appeal, such as breast surgery, facelifts, cosmetic breast surgery, or liposuction. Reconstructive surgery, on the other hand, addresses medical issues or physical abnormalities due to injury, birth defects, or disease. At Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery in Coralville, both types of procedures are offered based on your goals and medical needs.
Can plastic surgery really affect how others perceive me?
Yes. Studies have shown that certain plastic surgery procedures, especially facial rejuvenation like facelifts and eyelid surgery, can positively influence how others perceive traits such as likeability, approachability, and social confidence. Many plastic surgery patients report not only looking younger but also feeling more socially confident after their procedures.
Why should I choose a board-certified plastic surgeon?
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Andrews ensures that your surgeon has undergone rigorous training, passed national exams, and adheres to the highest standards of safety and ethics. This certification is your assurance of skill, professionalism, and expertise when planning any surgical procedure.
Is facial plastic surgery only for women?
Not at all. While women make up the majority of plastic surgery patients, men are increasingly turning to facial surgical procedures like eyelid surgery, chin implants, and facelifts to refresh their appearance and stay competitive in the workplace. Dr. Andrews tailors each procedure to the unique anatomy and goals of the patient, regardless of gender.
