INCREASE IN MEN SEEKING COSMETIC PROCEDURES It used to be an almost exclusively female dominated market, but in recent years industry experts are reporting an increase in men undergoing non-surgical and surgical cosmetic procedures. Whether it is to maintain a competitive edge in a business world full of younger men, to keep up with a younger looking (or just younger) partner, or simply to feel better about themselves, more and more Gold Coast men are embracing surgical and nonsurgical procedures. Susan Walsh, registered nurse and injectables specialist with leading Gold Coast cosmetic practice Advanced Aesthetics says while the ratio of men to women utilising cosmetic procedures is still about 1:30, she has seen a significant increase in male procedures over the past decade. “Those numbers have certainly been increasing over time,” Susan says. “Men of all ages are becoming increasingly aware of their appearance, and recognising that there is a huge variety of treatments suitable for men.” Susan, who is also the Queensland Clinical Trainer for Galderma Q Med, the global dermatology company that produces many of the injectable products used widely in the industry, reports an increase in men between the ages of 30 and 50 accessing treatments, most commonly those used to address wrinkles and frown lines. “Some men have professional reasons for wanting to address excessive wrinkles and sun-damage,” she says. “They are doing business or competing with much younger men, and often believe a prematurely aged face is holding them back professionally. So they may undertake a series of injectables to address that; allowing them to make very subtle changes that have a big impact on their appearance and confidence. “On a personal level there are many men who – like our female patients – don’t feel their appearance accurately reflects who they are. In Australia, sun damage to the skin results in premature aging of the face in both men and women, and more and more men are seeking measures to undo this, and turn back the clock somewhat. “We are also seeing men undertake laser tattoo removal as well as laser skin treatments.” While Australian figures are unavailable, in the US the increase in male surgical procedures has been significant, with the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) reporting the number of cosmetic procedures for men has increased by more than 106% between 1997 and 2012. Leading Gold Coast plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon Dr Dilip Gahankari says he had also seen an increase in male surgical cosmetic procedures, most commonly rhinoplasty (nose job) and gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction). Dr Dilip says there has also been an increase in tummy tucks for men, body lifts (after massive weight loss), liposuction and eyelid surgery to address drooping or heavy eyelids. “As patients become more aware of their options, and the relative ease with which these procedures can be undertaken, we are seeing an increase in men taking up surgical solutions,” Dr Gahankari says. “With something like the male breast reduction or Gynecomastia, this can be a life-changing surgery for men who have spent much of their adult life self-conscious about this area of their body. “It is rarely talked about, but Gynecomastia is a condition that affects an estimated 40- 60% of men. In some cases the condition is so noticeable that it may have a severe impact of a man’s self-esteem, his personal relationships, sex life and in some cases his career.” Both Susan and Dr Gahankari say that male patients, while open to undergoing the procedure, are less open to discussing it with friends and family. “Certainly men are concerned about the procedures remaining private,” Susan says. “And they are looking for subtle results that will make a difference without being overtly noticeable. “With the type of procedures we offer we are able to tailor the results so a male patient looks refreshed and rejuvenated without looking ‘done’, which is very important to them.” Top three procedures for men 1. Anti-ageing injectables 2. Nose reshaping surgery 3. Male breast reduction surgery About Advanced Aesthetics: Advanced Aesthetics Plastic Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Centre is based on the Gold Coast. The specialist team at Advanced Aesthetics is headed by Dr. Dilip Gahankari, an Australian qualified plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon, with more than 21 years of experience. Dr. Dilip specialises in minimal scar plastic surgery of the face, breasts and body, and is keenly aware of the importance of short scars in modern plastic surgery and is dedicated to delivering a natural look. Advanced Aesthetics also specialise in laser therapies, including the latest in tattoo removal technology, along with a full suite of skin health and beauty treatments including waxing, manicures, facials and more. For more information visit www.iplasticsurgeon.com.au or phone Advanced Aesthetics on (07) 55 39 4611. 58 Pindara Magazine 2015\2016
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Six
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