How the cosmetic surgery industry adapts to beauty trends

The changes that have occurred to the cosmetic surgery industry in just the last 20 years have revolutionised not only the way that surgery is performed but also the reasoning behind having the surgery.

Some beauty standards vary depending on the culture and the location, things like having a tan. In some culture this is seen as a sign of health and beauty, whereas as in others having pale skin is more attractive as it indicates that women do not work outside.

In relation to body type and figure, during the Victorian period there were products that would help a woman to gain weight as being heavier was a sign of fertility and good fortune, whereas in the late 20th century inspired by the rise of supermodels like Kate Moss, the smaller and the skinnier the woman, the better according to the media.

Body image can be influenced by many things, from your peers, culture and media along with past experiences. Studies have shown that the exposure to images of idealised beauty leads to an increase in body dissatisfaction, an increase in depression and lowers self esteem. Now more than ever we are constantly under the influence of TV, adverts and social media, like Instagram and TikTok.

It is easier than ever to undergo a cosmetic procedure, and with little to no recovery time needed after the surgery more and more of the younger generation are turning to it to feel better about themselves. And why not? The pressure to look and feel your best has never been higher, and with the rules and regulations being as effectively policed as they are there’s never been a better time to invest in a surgery that you’ve been thinking about for a while.

Celebrity culture also has a big influence over beauty ideals. With the rise of those such as Kim Kardashian, buttock implants were the fastest growing type of cosmetic surgery in 2015. Western culture has also been exposed to many more cultures, where facial features such as larger lips are more sought after and therefore woman began to covet that look leading to an increase in use of fillers for plumper lips.

With the changes that have happened over the past couple of decades, trends are likely to evolve again. What do you think is in store for the future of the beauty industry and cosmetic surgery?