Plastic surgery is no longer just for women

When people think of cosmetic surgery, they often picture a middle-class woman, visiting her local plastic surgeon. However, plastic surgery is far from being exclusively for the ladies. In fact, the newest statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) show that male cosmetic procedures are steadily on the rise. Men are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of cosmetic procedures, especially when learning that many techniques are quick and require little downtime.

Recent male plastic surgery statistics

The newest statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) show a staggering increase in male cosmetic surgery. Since 2000, male cosmetic surgery has shot up by 28%. Looking at the latest ASPS annual statistics, men made up 8% of all cosmetic procedures in 2016. These numbers are expected to grow even more in the coming years. As plastic surgery is becoming more efficient and affordable, it can now offer something for men of all ages, ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds.

What a man wants

Men are taking a greater interest in their own appearance for a variety of reasons. Culture is shifting, meaning men are no longer expected to look rugged and weathered. Instead, a man's softer and smoother skin is considered a plus. Additionally, the challenging job market can give men a reason to consider an elective procedure, ensuring they keep a competitive edge. Finally, as more and more men are becoming single later in life, plastic surgery can provide added confidence when reentering the dating market. No matter the reason, many guys are finding it easier to admit they would like to improve what they see reflected in the mirror.

Although men are fast becoming a common sight the plastic surgery waiting room, this does not mean they are seeing their surgeon for the same reason as their female counterparts. Men are looking at specific techniques to address their issues, usually starting with their physique. Liposuction is one of the most popular surgical procedure, putting an end to "love handles" or the beer belly. Liposuction of the neck with or without radiofrequency treatment is becoming increasingly popular and can help avoid having to undergo a face/necklift with scars around the ears. Also popular is the male breast reduction, eliminating gynecomastia (enlarged male breasts) to create a sculpted, masculine chest.

Noninvasive procedures are growing in popularity for both men and women, as well. Injectables, like Botox, soft tissue fillers and Kybella, have the excellent ability to erase wrinkles, restore lost facial volume and improve the "double chin" without a lengthy recovery. Minimally invasive techniques have little downtime and can even be completed during a lunch break, giving men the chance for self-improvement without anyone knowing they had a procedure performed.

Top five most common cosmetic procedures for men in 2016

• Rhinoplasty
• Eyelid surgery
• Breast reduction
• Liposuction
• Facelift

How men can get started

If you, or a guy you know, is considering a cosmetic procedure, start with the facts. ASPS has detailed information on the full range of surgical and noninvasive procedures available today, along with hundreds of before and after photographs. The next step is to find a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area. Schedule a consultation appointment to find out which technique is best suited for your individual needs and long-term desires. At this time, a personalized treatment plan, designed to achieve both short-term and long-term goals, can be created.