Is cosmetic surgery seasonal?

This may sound like a strange question, but in reality, certain procedures become more common at certain times of the year. It probably goes without saying, but one of the principal reasons for cosmetic surgery has its roots firmly embedded in self-consciousness. Society today puts a lot of pressure on people to look ‘perfect’ and while many of us will probably never feel we are perfect, we try our best to look our best.

Sometimes it can be as a result of dramatic weight loss or the changes the body undergoes after childbirth, but for some there comes a need for cosmetic surgery to make good the after-effects of such occurrences. This can range from a tummy tuck to surgery for what is commonly referred to as “bingo wings”, arm lift or brachioplasty as it is also called. Breast reshaping and breast augmentation are also more commonly asked at this time of the year and to me it all makes perfect sense. If we are uncomfortable with our bodies and there is a solution, then I’m always delighted to be an important part of that solution.Self-confidence is often the key to getting most out of life, yet oddly, when spring and summer arrives, self-confidence levels can dip for a good number of women because no longer are their bodies totally covered up. In fact, one of a noticeable number of reasons why my patients opt for plastic surgery at this time of the year is because they want to feel comfortable when either at the beach or simply wearing cool summer clothing.

Of course it is not just women who feel they have a need for plastic surgery, and at this time of year men can also become overly self-conscious about their bodies. Two of the most common procedures I carry out are male breast reduction and male nipple reduction. I have also noticed that many years ago men were too embarrassed to even consider seeing a plastic surgeon, but seven or eight years ago this all began to change.. Between 2010 and 2011 there was an 80% increase in the number of gynecomastia, or male breast reduction surgeries performed in the UK, with an overall boost of 20% in male cosmetic surgeries in general. This trend has continued and it is good news that today men need not feel embarrassed coming to a plastic surgeon.

At my surgery here in Bristol, Robert Warr Consultant Plastic Surgeon, it is quite remarkable the change I see in so many of my patients, not just from a physical point of view, but also from the point of view of personality, confidence and enthusiasm. Plastic surgery is most definitely greater than the sum of its parts in relation to the benefits it brings patients. It is because of the mental as opposed to physical change but I am always keen to have a comprehensive discussion with all my patients prior to any cosmetic surgery so that while the physical aspects can be discussed, my patients can also be made aware, in advance, of the likely positive mental changes that will also occur.

For this last reason if for no other, I always welcome calls from anyone who wishes to know more about plastic surgery in general, or if you feel you have the need for specific plastic surgery in Bristol.