Predictions for 2016’s most popular cosmetic surgery procedures

Posted: 15/02/2016

As most New Year’s resolutions are about self-improvement such as losing weight and eating more healthily, cosmetic surgeons try to encourage prospective patients into their offices with the slogan “New year, new you!”. Although the Penningtons Manches cosmetic claims team would advise those seeking cosmetic surgery to ignore this type of sales approach, we recognise that the start of the new year is one of the most popular times to consider surgery. 

In 2016, we predict that the following surgical procedures will be the most popular for achieving the “new you”: 

• Liposuction has become increasingly popular for both men and women. The procedure involves removing unwanted fat deposits by making tiny incisions hidden within creases and sucking the fat out. 
• Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a bigger surgical procedure but remains one of the favourites post-pregnancy to remove excess skin, stretch marks and fat. 
• Breast augmentation, enhancement, lift or reduction procedures continue to be some of the most popular surgical procedures. 
• Facelift and neck lifts can combat the effects of ageing in the facial region, especially the neck, which are a problem for both men and women. There are relatively straightforward procedures available such as rejuvenation of the face or neck to create a more rested, fresher appearance.  
• Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) of the upper or lower lids removes hooded or baggy eyelid skin - and sometimes removes bulging fat pockets – which can permanently refresh the eye area. 

Out of the non-surgical procedures, the following a likely to be the front-runners: 

• CoolSculpting grew in popularity in 2015. While the results are not as dramatic as those for liposuction, the patient can return to normal day to day activities immediately. CoolSculpting is especially popular with men to banish a “spare tyre” or “muffin top”. 
• Botox remains the number one popular injectable treatment. It has revolutionised the cosmetic industry and has a good track record. 
• Derma fillers are safe if used correctly. They can be used to sculpt the face and fill in lines or hollows resulting from volume loss with ageing or significant weight loss. 
• Intense pulsed light (IPL) photo-facials are performed by a non-ablative laser-type machine that targets red or brown pigments in the skin or deeper water molecules to zap away unwanted pigmentation abnormalities. This causes a  turnover of skin cells for a refreshed skin glow. 
• LATISSE is an FDA-approved topical medication that grows your eyelashes longer, fuller and darker. A non-surgical way to help brighten the eyes. 

Elise Bevan, a solicitor in the clinical negligence team at Penningtons Manches, said: “While a ‘new you’ might mean a visit to a cosmetic surgeon for some, increased exercise, a change in diet or skin care regime will do the trick for others. Either way, it is important to do your homework. Seek a surgeon or practitioner who is certified by or a member of one of the British associations and research the intended procedure so that you fully understand the risks and benefits. That way you will be doing your best to reach your personal goals for 2016 in the safest way possible.” 

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