Are Selfies Spurring Surge in Plastic Surgery?

Is there a direct correlation between selfies and plastic surgery? Thirty three percent (33%) of plastic surgeons have seen an uptick in cosmetic surgery requests as a result of patients being more self-conscious of their looks due to social media, according to a report published by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS). 

Selfies, self-taken photos usually with a camera phone, have become very popular in sharing on social networks. The word selfie has grown in popularity 17,000% since 2012 according to the Oxford Dictionaries’ blog. In fact, this has become so popular that the Pope and Michelle Obama have joined in and posted selfies on social media sites. 

Selfies may be fueling a boom in plastic surgery, “but it would be difficult I think to confirm this,” states Dr. Shahram Salemy, a board certified Seattle plastic surgeon.   Dr. Salemy said he would not be surprised if he had patients who underwent procedures based on the selfie culture. Regarding selfies and social media, Dr. Salemy adds “I do think it speaks to two things in my opinion: the overall level of contact and connection that patients can have with friends or other patients, and our growing awareness as a society of our personal appearances and how it can affect our lives in a very positive way.”

According to the AAFPRS report, the number one reason why we are witnessing a rising trend in plastic surgery is that patients are more educated about the procedures. Additionally, the report indicates that the rise in aesthetic procedures is also due to the increase in non-surgical cosmetic procedures, women under 35 becoming more conscious of their looks, and people getting plastic surgery to stay competitive in the workforce.

An award winning plastic surgeon, Dr. Salemy provides a range of cosmetic procedures including facial rejuvenation, breast enhancement and body contouring. His focus is on providing personalized treatment plans tailored to patients individualized needs and desires.

Schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Salemy by calling (206) 467-1101 or emailing his Seattle office.