Cosmetic Surgery: The New Makeup

Did you know that once upon a time, ordinary makeup – products like lipstick and blush – were only available on a behind-the-counter basis? Or that nutrition and exercise recommendations were considered esoteric beauty secrets?

Aspects of what we would consider everyday self-care had to go through a process by which they started as a fringe phenomenon and gradually became more and more socially acceptable. Now, Time magazine reports, the same thing is happening with aesthetic procedures. Cosmetic enhancements that were once done on the sly are now openly discussed, without judgement. What caused the change?

We Admit That Appearances Matter, Personally and Professionally

One major cultural change contributing to this shift is the widespread acknowledgement that our physical appearances matter, both personally and professionally. Over the course of a lifetime, workers who are considered to be above-average in appearance will make $230,000 than those who aren’t quite as good looking. Social media and online dating also emphasize the importance of appearance. As Time puts it, everyone is always on the red carpet.

Minimally Invasive Procedures Can Deliver Big Results

Botox, Dysport, Juvederm, Restylane and other injectables effectively treat fine lines and wrinkles and restore a youthful complexion without the need for surgery. Laser and light technology can effectively treat a variety of issues including sun damage, age spots, rosacea and sagging skin. There’s little pain involved with these minimally invasive beauty treatments, and almost no recovery downtime is required. The speed, comfort, and effectiveness of such procedures makes having work done a much more appealing choice.

#1 Response From Friends & Family: Good For You!

A survey done by MSN revealed that 62% of people reported that their reaction to finding out a friend or family member had a cosmetic procedure done would be “Good for them!” There has been a 22% increase in the numbers of people considering aesthetic treatments over the last year; not surprising when no one wants to be seen as ‘letting themselves go’.
Fears that having work done would cause one to be seen as ‘not a good feminist’ have also fallen by the wayside. “From a feminist perspective,” Jennifer Cognard-Black, a professor of English and women, gender and sexuality at St. Mary’s College of Maryland and a member of the Ms. Committee of Scholars, said “putting voice behind one’s body-image issues is better than feeling ashamed.”

Medical Advancements That Make The Difference

Finally, Time calls out several medical advances that make cosmetic procedures more universally appealing. Voluma and Restylayne Silk each represent significant advances in beauty treatments. Voluma is noted for its long lasting impact; the filler can deliver smoother, tauter skin texture in the cheeks for up to two years. Restylayne Silk is the first treatment designed specifically for the lips, making it easier for people to smile with confidence. As more advances are made, cosmetic surgery and alternative treatments will become more and more commonplace for men and women alike.

Categories:  Botox & Fillers, Plastic Surgery
Tags:  Cosmetic Surgery, Restylane Silk, Voluma