Have you recently considered getting plastic surgery to enhance your natural beauty? You are not the only one. According to statistics, around 25,972 surgical procedures were conducted in the UK in 2023. In the same year it is estimated that approximately 34.9 million aesthetic procedures (surgical and non-surgical) were performed worldwide. The top 10 countries with the most people who have undergone cosmetic surgery include South Korea (8.9 procedures per 1,000 people), Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Greece, the United States, Germany, Italy, Mexico, and France (5.62 procedures per 1,000 people). In no specific order, join us as we look at the most sought-after surgical procedures across the country.
Why Do People Get Plastic Surgery?
People get plastic surgery for all sorts of reasons. The most common reason is to improve their appearance. After all, we all deserve to feel happy in the body we are in. Whether it is top surgery, a nose job, a boob job, buccal fat removal, or a facelift, the goal is to boost one’s self-esteem.
Other reasons people undergo plastic surgery are to correct birth defects like cleft palates or injuries caused by accidents, helping to restore function or improve appearance. Of course, some surgeries, like breast reduction, are performed to address physical discomfort or medical conditions like back pain.
Most Requested Surgeries Across The Country
Buccal Fat Removal
Maybe you have seen it on TV, YouTube, or across social media, but there is no denying that buccal fat removal is growing in popularity, particularly among people looking to achieve a more sculpted, contoured facial appearance. This procedure involves removing fat from your cheeks to create a slimmer, more defined look.
Think model-like cheekbones and a snatched jawline. During the surgery, small incisions are made inside your mouth to remove excess fat from your buccal fat pads. However, buccal fat removal is not for everyone. It is best suited for those with rounder faces or fuller cheeks rather than those who already have naturally thin faces, as too much fat removal can create a sunken and somewhat eerie look. No thank you, right?
Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nose job, is one of the UK’s MOST popular cosmetic surgeries. It is also the most sought-after surgical procedure amongst men in the UK. The word rhinoplasty is derived from two Greek terms, namely rhino (meaning nose) and plasty (meaning to shape). Think rhinoceros, the animal with the nose (rhino) horn (ceros). On average, roughly 1,832 women and 388 men undergo the surgery each year. Interestingly enough, 2013 saw a spike in nose augmentations with about 4,878 procedures conducted that year. A rhinoplasty procedure basically involves reshaping the cartilage and bone of your nose to create a more balanced look. It is a great procedure to help improve the aesthetics of your nose or to fix issues like a deviated septum that might be affecting your breathing.
Breast Augmentation
Also referred to as a blood job, is another widely sought-after procedure in the UK. Women choose this surgery for various reasons, from enhancing breast size to restoring volume after pregnancy or weight loss. The surgery involves inserting implants (either silicone or saline) to create fuller, more symmetrical breasts, and so many women have reported feeling more confident, comfortable and like a million bucks following this surgery. Give or take 3 years ago, the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) reported that 6,640 breast enlargement procedures were performed in 2022. That is a lot.
Liposuction
In 2023 it was reported that about 2,500 liposuction procedures were performed in the UK. Therefore it should come as no surprise when we say that liposuction remains one of the top choices for individuals who are looking to lose a pound or two. It is ideal for shaping areas like your abdomen, thighs, hips, and arms, and brace yourself, even your chin! During the lipo procedure, a small tube is used to remove the excess fat through tiny incisions. Just remember, after your procedure to maintain a healthy lifestyle to help keep your results intact.
Rhytidectomy
We know what you are thinking, a rhy-ti-what? Here is the term that you may be more familiar with, a facelift. Naturally, as we age, our skin ages and starts to sag. A facelift, however, helps turn back the clock by tightening your muscles and removing all the excess skin on your face to smooth out those unwanted wrinkles and restore a youthful appearance. Hold onto your hats and facial folds, according to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), 1,772 face and neck lift procedures were performed in the UK in 2022. That represents a 97% increase from the previous year! Let us repeat that, a 97% increase. This also just goes to show people are taking back their youth unapologetically.
Blepharoplasty
Maybe more familiar if we use layman’s terms. A blepharoplasty is also known as eyelid surgery. Similar to a rhinoplasty, this term is derived from Greek as well. Blepharon (meaning eyelid) and plasty (meaning to shape or form). If you are looking to refresh your eyes and reduce puffiness or excess skin around them, this is the cosmetic procedure for you. In 2022, blepharoplasty saw a significant increase to around 2,778 procedures but not as much in 2015 when it peaked at around 8,689 procedures that year!
Abdominoplasty
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is an excellent choice for those wanting to tighten and tone their stomach area. It is especially popular among people who have lost a significant amount of weight or experienced changes in their body after pregnancy. Not to be confused with liposuction. This procedure is focused on removing excess skin and fat and tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall. Whereas liposuction is focused on removing unwanted fat only.
UK’s Cosmetic Capitals
In the United Kingdom, Birmingham is the city with the highest number of cosmetic surgery requests. In 2014, over 1,000 people sought cosmetic procedures, with rhinoplasty (nose jobs) being particularly popular. However, when considering the total number of cosmetic procedures performed like cheek slimming and tummy tuck, Greater London takes the lead.
Our Final Thoughts On Cosmetic Enhancements
Getting plastic surgery is a deeply personal choice. If you have decided it is an aesthetic road you want to venture down, be sure to book a consultation with a top surgeon in your city to ensure you get the best plastic surgery.
By choosing the right procedure and keeping realistic expectations, you can enjoy beautiful, long-lasting results that make you feel your best. We are rooting for you.
