As cosmetic plastic surgery procedures continue the meteoric rise in numbers, we are seeing a new generation of patients. Many years ago, plastic surgery was only accessible to the rich and famous, or an older population of patients. But things have certainly changed over the years and the stigma associated with cosmetic surgery is long gone. Yes, welcome Generation Z to the world of plastic surgery. Why are younger patient’s having more plastic surgery procedures? The answer is quite simple, social media.

There was certainly a time when patients were very secretive about having plastic surgery. But Instagram, TikTok, SnapChat and Twitter have become the diaries for patients to tell the world they are having plastic surgery. Patients are even documenting it every step of the way. For many it has become a great educational tool. People are no longer concerned or scared about what the recovery may be like, because they are able to virtually experience it. In fact, many patients have even watched surgery online and are more educated consumers of plastic surgery. Young people feeling insecure about themselves is certainly not new. But in an age of selfies, constant pictures, and posting, every outing is a stage to thousands of followers.

So, what exactly are younger patients having done, and what are some of the new trends we are seeing. Most younger patients enter at the more conservative, non-surgical level. They dip their toe in the waters of plastic surgery. Botox, fillers, facials, hair removal, Coolsculpting (non-invasive fat removal), and skin care are quite common among younger patients. These are essentially entry level procedures that give them a boost of confidence without spending their savings, and still staying conservative. Patients are starting Botox at an earlier age as a preventative measure to avoid the signs of aging.

However, there are several warnings to be aware of.  Just because these are conservative procedures, any of them can be overdone. We often say that plastic surgery is not bad, it is bad plastic surgery that is bad. Young patients seeking fuller lips, or the lip flip (turning up the upper lip with filler) is very common. While subtle results can be beautiful, overfilled lips are one of the most common mistakes in young people and the results are often comical. I quite often turn down patients that I feel are at risk of these results. Unfortunately, there are a lot of unqualified injectors that will simply fill as much as the patient desires for the financial gain.       It is easy to lose your perspective on what looks normal.

The most common surgical procedures for young women include breast augmentation with gummy bear (cohesive) implants, breast reductions, liposuction, and nose jobs. A common trend I am seeing in breast augmentation, is that many women are choosing smaller sized implants. For many years, the average sized implant in the United States was considerably larger than the rest of the world. But in my practice, women are choosing a more sporty, perky, and slimmer appearance over the voluptuous, augmented, heavy breast. In fact, many women who chose the larger implants many years ago are now returning to replace them with smaller implants and lifts.  I spend a considerable amount of time with my patients having a detailed discussion on their goals and desires to avoid these regrets. For young men, liposuction, male breast reduction (gynecomastia) and nose jobs are the most common procedures we see.

We are certainly seeing the age of the surgical facial rejuvenation patient decreasing as well. Patients are no longer waiting until their 60’s to go under the knife. Patients are starting to undergo procedures such as mini-facelifts, necklifts, and lasering at these younger ages as their lives are constantly being documented on social media and avoid drastic changes as they age.  

However, this all comes with some very important cautions. Don’t try to Keep up with the Kardashians. Not all is what it seems and filters are quite common in social media, similar to air brushing in print ads. Finally, there are a lot of people who want to be Plastic Surgeons, but not adequately trained. Do your research and be sure to consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Doing so will ensure you are getting the highest quality, ethically standards, and best care to show off on Instagram.  

Scott Engel, MD, FACS
Sarasota Plastic Surgery Center

Diplomate – American Board of Plastic Surgery

Member – American Society of Plastic Surgeons, The Aesthetic Society, Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons, Sarasota County Medical Society.