Whether it was due to quarantine weight gain, Zoom facial anxiety or the opportunity for discreet downtime, plastic surgeons around the globe reported a surge in interest in cosmetic surgery during lockdown. Now the latest plastic surgery statistics from the US are in and give us some interesting insights into popular pandemic procedures.
The Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Statistics annual report is compiled by The Aesthetic Society and this year found that Americans spent more than $9 billion on surgery and non-surgical aesthetic procedures during the pandemic. According to the report, among the most popular were liposuction and tummy tucks.
Of all the procedures, liposuction was the most popular. As a result, although some might perceive plastic surgery being popular with an older demographic wanting to turn back the hands of time, the report also found that 40% of all procedures were in the 36 to 50 age group.
The lowdown on liposuction
Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure to remove unwanted deposits of fat, mainly from the body but it is also possible to reduce a double chin with lipo. Any area of the body can be treated, including the hips, tummy, thighs, arms, back and even the knees. Men that are suffering with excess fat in the chest area, known as pseudo-gynaecomastia, can achieve a greatly improved appearance with liposuction.
During a liposuction procedure, Mr Juling Ong will make tiny incisions in the target area and insert a thin tube known as a cannula. The cannula is used to loosen the fat before it is sucked out and then the incisions are closed. The benefits of liposuction are a more even distribution of fat, resulting in smoother body contours.
As with any surgical procedure there are risks and although they are unlikely it is important to weigh them up against the potential benefits. Risks include scars, although the incisions from liposuction are very small and usually well-hidden. Bruising, swelling and discomfort are a common complication after liposuction but will quickly improve. Other possible complications include seroma, infection, changes in sensation and asymmetry
One possible risk is that you’re left with loose skin once the fat is removed. During your initial consultation, Juling will assess your skin elasticity and advise you on whether liposuction is the appropriate treatment. For some patients, a surgical procedure to remove excess skin is needed – this is a common issue in the abdomen area, and often patients require a tummy tuck either combined with liposuction or as a standalone procedure.
To find out more about lipo benefits, call 020 7927 6528 to arrange a consultation with Mr Juling Ong.
