What do Facebook, Twitter and Instagram have in common? Despite the fact that they’re social media platforms, they’re also responsible for increasing the demand for cosmetic surgery. Recent studies have identified a correlation between the “selfie” and a growing market of people wanting to go under the knife.
Oh do tell
Apparently, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) obtained these findings in its recent annual poll that seeks to identify trends in the industry. Of the organisation’s 2,700 members, a select group of doctors was chosen for the study. 13% reported that they had seen a significant increase in the demand for their service due to patients not being happy with the way they look on social media.
That’s a bit extreme, don’t you think?
No, not at all. Social media has made people more aware of themselves, with users trying to compete with each other in a bid to look attractive. The pressure of keeping up with trends has forced many to scrutinise every image they take of themselves.
Cyber bullying also plays a huge role in influencing people to turn to facial surgery. The faceless “trolls” that mock other people’s images can harm a person’s confidence. AAFPRS found that some patients had experienced harassment on platforms such as Instagram. This could also explain why a larger group of young people are more interested in the procedure than ever.
Whoa, younger people too?
Yep, AARPRS also reported a rise in surgical procedures for people under the age of 30, according to 58% of the doctors surveyed. Social media is seen by the younger generation as an extension of themselves, and it plays a role in their development. While scrolling through images of people they think are better looking, such as celebrities, they may want to look as beautiful.
What about the filter
Although editing software improves the appearance of an image, it doesn’t change the traits that the person may find undesirable. And the process itself forces a person to closely scrutinise their looks, which makes them more aware of any blemishes or wrinkles. This could also explain why both men and women are turning to non-invasive procedures to reverse the effects of aging and to avoid facial surgery.
It must cost an arm and a leg
Just like any other form of cosmetic surgery such as liposuction, the costs of facial surgery can be high. Patients are often concerned about the price, scarring, recovery and pain involved in the procedure. However, this hasn’t deterred people from undergoing it – which explains the massive increase in cosmetic surgery numbers, many of which include the use of BOTOX.
So what’s the conclusion?
Basically, the “selfie” is inadvertently advertising facial surgery. The more people take, the more they become aware of what they would like to change about themselves. They want to feel confident when they stand in front of a mirror and take snap shots of different poses, eventually uploading the image for others to see.