Social media has had a major impact on plastic surgery, increasing its popularity and influencing both men and women to pursue procedures through selfies, trends, and online content. It can also make it easier to research treatments and find qualified surgeons. For anyone considering plastic surgery or non-surgical cosmetic treatments, especially younger patients shaped by social media trends, understanding that influence can help separate pressure and marketing from useful education before making a decision to pursue plastic surgery services.
Research Connecting Social Media Influencers & Plastic Surgery Trends
In early 2015, Dermatology Times reported on a survey from RealSelf which found that social media does play a role in plastic surgery choices. The online information-sharing community surveyed 527 visitors to determine whether social networking sites like Facebook and Snapchat, and overall social media usage, were influencing many patients to pursue plastic surgery, with patients often referencing social media filters during consultations. The survey found that more than 15 percent said simply, “Yes,” while another 33 percent said that while they were already leaning toward surgery, social media photos reinforced their decision.
Early this year, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery announced the outcome of their annual survey on plastic surgery trends, including the impact of social media. They reported that social media and reality TV are prompting millennials to turn to facial plastic surgery procedures. Dubbed the “Kardashian Effect” and “Selfie Mania,” this trend is fueling an increase in younger patients seeking skin rejuvenation and body contouring procedures. The addition of more non-surgical procedures offering superior results also attracts younger patients looking for cosmetic enhancement, with social media exposure also shaping patient expectations.
Social Media’s Influence
As more men and women are turning to social media sites to show the results of their cosmetic treatments, the perception of plastic surgery, in general, has changed. Influencers who share plastic surgery journeys and before-and-after photos can normalize cosmetic enhancements and make people more comfortable as patients seek cosmetic procedures based on unrealistic digital standards. Today, it is much more acceptable to indulge in a treatment or surgery to enhance one’s appearance, and easier for everyday people, not just celebrities, to access quality services.
Cosmetic Surgery Advertisements
Social media has also become an effective place for those shopping for a procedure to find the right doctor for their needs. Many plastic surgeons now use a strong social media presence and social media advertising for visibility, allowing you to determine the qualifications of a surgeon and read multitudes of patient testimonials on any mobile device with the simple investment of a little bit of time.
However, reviews alone are not enough; patient education and educating patients about realistic expectations, realistic outcomes, and overall patient care remain essential. Misinformation can be spread online, so it is necessary that you do your own research outside of social media platforms before undergoing cosmetic procedures.
It’s also important to recognize the prevalence of filtered content that can create unrealistic beauty standards and lead to body dissatisfaction or body dysmorphic disorder. We want to make sure that patients have realistic expectations and a healthy mindset before they undergo plastic surgery with our team. Plastic surgery should be used simply as a way to enhance natural beauty and boost self-esteem.
Schedule a Consultation at Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery Center
There is no doubt the rise in social media has made us even more aware of our appearance. Fortunately, there are many plastic surgical procedures and non-surgical treatments to help us achieve our cosmetic goals so we can look our absolute best for that next selfie. To learn more, contact Dr. Andrews and his staff at Dr. Andrews Plastic, Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery today at 855-338-0261.
