Not too long ago, it was exceedingly rare for men to seek cosmetic surgery. Times have changed, however, and now many men are discovering the benefits of changing their appearance. Nearly one-third of respondents to a survey by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery said they were “extremely likely” to consider getting a cosmetic procedure. What’s driving this change?
The Selfie and Social Media Era
Social media platforms have become an inescapable part of life. We enjoy seeing pictures and videos of our friends and their families, and they expect to see us document our lives in return. Most people don’t think twice about snapping a selfie to show themselves enjoying experiences like a sporting event, vacation, or concert – and, as a result, we look at photos of ourselves more often than at any other point in history.
The rise of social media has enabled instantaneous communication among people all around the world, but it has also made many of us more critical of the way we look. Once you realize anyone in our constantly-on culture can find and view your online posts, you might think twice about posting a photo where you are looking old or tired.
Social media use has made some of us more self-conscious about our appearance, while it has allowed others the freedom to be more open about documenting their lives. As a result, many people are readily sharing intensely personal details, including before-and-after photos of their cosmetic procedures. This openness has steadily erased the stigma around having “work done,” making both men and women increasingly receptive to the idea of seeking plastic surgery to change their appearance.
Competition in the Workplace
We naturally view people who look younger as being healthier and more attractive, and popular culture reinforces this idea every day. Despite the wisdom and patience that come with age, people who look older might struggle in the job market because employers assume they’re not as up to date on new ideas and technology as younger people.
It can be frustrating to have your appearance hold you back from getting the job you want and deserve. Cosmetic surgery can help improve your self-image and give you confidence that will shine through when you go in for job interviews.
The Most Common Cosmetic Procedures for Men
In more than a decade in practice, Dr. Jeffrey Schmidt has seen an increasing number of male patients come to his Denver-area cosmetic surgery clinic. Here are the most sought-after procedures among men.
- Hair transplants: Though balding affects the majority of men, that doesn’t make it any easier when you start losing your hair. Some men begin experiencing male pattern baldness as early as their 20s, which can make it more difficult for them to find a romantic partner. Modern methods of hair transplant surgery are virtually undetectable and do not involve any stitches, incisions, or large linear scarring.
- BOTOX®: BOTOX® for men has become so popular that you may hear some people jokingly call it “Bro-tox.” This neuromodulator and its close cousin, Xeomin®, are highly effective at minimizing the appearance of wrinkles around the eyes and eyebrow area. Many younger men have also realized its benefits as a preventive measure that keeps wrinkles from forming.
- Eyelid lift: The skin around the eyes is often the first part of the face to show signs of premature aging. If you have sagging or drooping skin on your upper eyelids, or bags have formed under your eyes, it can cause you to look angry, sad, or tired. An eyelid lift can significantly improve your appearance by giving you a more open, refreshed, and revitalized look.
- Chin reshaping: If you are self-conscious that your jawline is making you look less masculine, or you feel your facial features are imbalanced, a chin enhancement can augment the size and shape of a weak or receding chin and achieve a more naturally attractive harmony among all your other facial features. In contrast, if your chin is too prominent, Dr. Schmidt can file it down, so it becomes less of a focal point on your face.
Cosmetic Surgery for Male Patients
If you live in the Denver area and would like to explore what plastic surgery can do for you, schedule your consultation with Dr. Schmidt. As a board-certified surgeon, Dr. Schmidt uses his extensive knowledge of facial anatomy to create excellent results for every patient.
