Male Cosmetic Surgery Is On The Rise

There was a 207% increase in cosmetic procedures performed on men between 2019 and 2022, the latest American Academy of Plastic Surgeons (AAFPRS) annual national survey reveals. And 44% of AAFPRS surgeons expect this number to only increase throughout 2024 and beyond (up 5% from 2022). From facelifts to breast reductions, men are increasingly looking for ways to improve and perfect their appearance, while cosmetic treatments on the whole are becoming more accessible and socially acceptable than ever before. 

The latest trends for men 

Rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty and facelifts are currently the most in-demand procedures. Deep plane facelifts are particularly popular with older men as they use smaller incisions and keep the skin surface thicker than regular facelifts. “As minimally invasive technology continues to advance, this opens the door for more men to get discreet, quick-to-heal cosmetic treatments,” notes Sherard A. Tatum, AAFPRS President. Forehead lifts and revision surgery are also highly requested.  

Breast reduction (aka gynecomastia correction) is another treatment growing in popularity. Enlarged breasts can severely impact quality of life, and can’t always be fixed with diet and exercise alone. “Many men who suffer from gynecomastia experience diminished self-esteem, and anxiety in normal situations such as spending a day at the beach or changing in a locker room after a game”, explains Berardi surgeon, Joseph C. Berardi, MD. A breast reduction procedure involves removing fat via liposuction to tone down and resculpt the chest, so men can feel good in their bodies again.  

The reasons behind the rise

As cosmetic surgery is more readily available than it’s ever been before, awareness and interest is naturally growing among men. “I think men are changing and culture is, too,” Deborah Sandler, psychotherapist and cosmetic surgery counselor, tells FashionBeans. “Social media has had an important role in promoting a greater emphasis on physical appearance. Most people are dissatisfied with some part or parts of their body”. Indeed, around 30%-40% of U.S. men are anxious about their weight, while 85% are insecure over their muscularity. Cosmetic surgery can be a way for them to look like younger, better versions of themselves.  

AI and 3D imaging: the future of men’s cosmetic surgery  

“Over the next year, we will certainly see the rise of AI in aesthetic medicine as surgeons integrate this technology to better analyze facial features, guide both their cosmetic and reconstructive surgery work, and predict outcomes of interventions over time”, says Dr. Tatum. “Things like 3D imaging allow us to simulate potential outcomes for more precise treatment planning, injectable placement and more. Custom computer-generated implants are available to better enhance or reconstruct facial contour problems.” 

Dr. Tatum also predicts men will increasingly opt for a natural look. Injectables will fall somewhat out of favor as men won’t want to appear “overdone”. “I predict we’ll see a greater focus on more natural outcomes and graceful aging. Some outward appearance of maturity can be taken as a sign of experience and wisdom.”  

Men’s cosmetic surgery is more popular than ever before. With technology and procedures continuing to advance, demand for this trend shows no sign of slowing down.