By Sean Kelishadi, MD, FACS
As the field of plastic surgery progresses, new trends and procedures are constantly emerging, revolutionizing the ways people can enhance and rejuvenate their appearance. What are some of the most popular plastic surgery procedures today? Consider these trends.
Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the eyelids. It can be performed on either the upper or lower lids, or both. The procedure involves removing excess skin or fat from the periorbital region and involves repositioning excess tissue as well as reinforcing surrounding muscles and tendons to rejuvenate the eye area.
The benefits of blepharoplasty are manifold. It can correct drooping upper lids and puffy bags under the eyes—features that make patients look older and more tired than they feel. It can also improve vision in older people who have sagging upper eyelids that obstruct their sight.
The procedure has seen a rise in popularity due to the increasing emphasis on the eyes, especially in the era of face masks. Remember: “The eyes are the gateway to the soul.” Additionally, with work-from-home setups and increased screen time, more people are seeking solutions for tired-looking eyes, making blepharoplasty a popular choice.
Cheek Implants
Cheek implants, also known as cheek augmentation, is a procedure that adds volume or lift to the cheeks. This procedure involves the placement of synthetic materials in the cheekbone to provide a more youthful and balanced facial appearance.
The benefits of cheek implants are clear. They provide a permanent solution to the loss of volume, which can create a gaunt appearance. By enhancing the cheeks’ projection, they add definition to the face, accentuating the cheekbones, and creating a more youthful look. Cheek implants are gaining popularity as more people seek ways to achieve a sculpted, youthful appearance. The procedure offers a long-lasting solution, as opposed to temporary fillers, making it an attractive option for those seeking a defined facial structure.
Skinny BBL
A skinny Brazilian butt lift (BBL) is a modified version of the traditional BBL. It caters to patients with petite frames who still desire a curved and more pronounced posterior. The procedure involves harvesting smaller amounts of fat from various areas of the body, purifying it, and transferring it to the buttocks.
A skinny BBL can transform one’s body in many ways, sculpting a more contoured silhouette, improving proportionality, and enhancing the natural curves of the body. As the procedure uses the patient’s own fat, the risks of allergic reactions are minimized.
The skinny BBL has seen an upsurge in popularity as it offers a solution for individuals who previously may not have been considered good candidates for a traditional BBL due to a lack of excess fat. It opens the door for leaner patients to achieve the desirable hourglass figure.
BBL Reversal
A BBL reversal is a procedure that removes or reduces the volume of fat previously transferred to the buttocks during a Brazilian butt lift. It’s typically sought after by individuals who are unhappy with the results of their original BBL or whose preferences have changed over time.
The benefits of a BBL reversal include the reduction of buttock size, the restoration of a more natural appearance, and the correction of any asymmetries or deformities caused by the initial BBL.
The rise in popularity of BBL reversal is due to changing beauty trends and evolving looks. As societal standards of beauty evolve, personal aesthetic goals evolve as well, leading to an increase in requests for this procedure.
Patient Research Is Key
While these procedures offer a myriad of benefits and can be tempting, patients should still conduct proper research and consult with experienced professionals before undergoing any procedure. After all, the world of plastic surgery is constantly evolving, with new procedures and trends emerging every day.
Whether the purpose is cosmetic enhancement or medical necessity, the most vital step for patients is to engage in a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. This discussion allows patients to explore their options thoroughly and make informed decisions tailored to their specific needs and goals.
Sean Kelishadi, MD, FACS, is a board-certified plastic surgeon at SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, Calif.
