Body image issues aren't exclusive to women — men deal with them too, which probably explains why more and more men in recent years have turned to plastic surgery in an attempt to improve their looks.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more than 1.3 million cosmetic procedures were performed on men in 2017 alone, and between 2000 to 2017, the number of plastic surgeries performed on them increased 29 percent.
Lorelei Grunwaldt, a plastic surgeon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, says more and more men are visiting her office to speak openly about their bodily insecurities.
Men Have Body Images Issues Too
"When I explain the wide range of surgeries and procedures available to help them achieve their goals, I can see the look of relief on their faces." A cosmetic procedure on just one area of the body can yield positive effects on self-image, according to Grunwaldt.
The Most Popular Cosmetic Procedures Among Men
Among the procedures performed among men, liposuction and tummy tucks seem to be among the most popular, increasing 23 percent and 12 percent over the past five years, respectively. Breast reductions still top out both, though, increasing to about 30 percent in the same period.
Some of the procedures are less invasive. Older men, for example, are opting for more anti-aging procedures. Nearly 100,000 men underwent filler injections in 2017 alone, up 99 percent since 2000. Why? American Society of Plastic Surgeons president Jeffrey Janis argues it's because men want to look their best even as they age.
"[M]ore often, men just want to look as young as they feel. That's where a board-certified plastic surgeon can help."
Plastic Surgery Stigma
Janis thinks the stigma around plastic surgery is diminishing, making it less daunting to men and much more acceptable even just to talk about this time around.
"Men were a little bit more reluctant to talk about it. Now, that's no longer the case."
While there's nothing wrong with opting for cosmetic procedures to boost one's perceived self-image and confidence, Janis says customers must be vigilant when planning to undergo this journey. To ensure that safety and ethical standards are maintained, he advises customers to approach board-certified plastic surgeons only, especially those who have years of experience and the capacity to accommodate different kinds of patients by giving them personalized approaches.
"Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is critical to your safety, your comfort, and your happiness."
