Survey identifies possible link between use of social media and the rise in cosmetic surgery

Posted: 24/02/2014

A recent survey by the American Academy of Facial Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) has made an interesting connection between social media and cosmetic surgery.

If you are a user of social media services that offer photo-sharing capabilities, such as Facebook, have you ever been tagged in a “non-flattering” photograph that leads you to become self-conscious about how the world will see you?

This interesting survey suggests that, while people may be happy with their appearance when they look in the mirror, they feel differently when they see pictures of themselves online. Why is this?

The AAFPRS has reported that requests for cosmetic surgery as a result of social media photo-sharing have increased by 31% and we would not be surprised if the trend was much the same in the UK given the increasing popularity of both social media and cosmetic surgery.

As it is now very common for celebrities to post “selfies” on their own social media pages for the world to view, perhaps everyone else thinks they will be subject to the same scrutiny as a celebrity. Could this be why more people are opting for cosmetic procedures such as facelifts and botox?

Amy Milner, an associate in the clinical negligence team at Penningtons Manches who specialises in cosmetic surgery cases, said: “With the increasing popularity of both social media and cosmetic surgery, it is worrying that this recent survey makes a connection between the two.

“We are all too familiar with the lack of regulation and safeguards in this industry and the failure by the Government to go far enough following Sir Keogh’s recent inquiry. We are concerned that prospective patients may not be making the appropriate checks when it comes to choosing a surgeon or a clinic. It is imperative that people opt for regulated plastic surgeons and have the appropriate consultations before their surgery to ensure that not only is the procedure appropriate for them but they are also properly aware of its risks and implications.”

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