Selfie Boom Drives Demand for Lip Augmentation

There’s no denying that we live in an era influenced by social media and the instant gratification of sharing selfies with the world. But are selfies — which may inadvertently show wrinkles or the beginnings of a sagging jaw line — driving a self-perceived need for plastic surgery? According to a survey conducted by the online community RealSelf, the answer is a resounding yes. And recent data from the American Society for Plastic Surgery (ASPS) backs this up.

The survey asked if social media had influenced RealSelf visitors to consider getting or have some type of cosmetic surgery. Nearly 16 percent answered “yes,” and a third of respondents answered, “somewhat, I knew I wanted a change, but photos on social media made me more aware.”

So what types of cosmetic enhancements are people requesting? 2015 statistics from the ASPS show that lip implants and augmentation have skyrocketed in recent years, making them one of the most popular facial procedures in the U.S.

Lip implant procedures in high demand

In 2015, both male and female patients requested a record number of lip implant procedures, according to ASPS data. Some 27,449 lip implants were performed across the nation last year, which is an increase of almost 50 percent since 2000.

“We live in the age of the selfie, and because we see images of ourselves almost constantly on social media, we’re much more aware of how our lips look,” says ASPS President, Dr. David H. Song. “The good thing about lip procedures is that you have several options. You can change the shape of your lips as subtly as you want.”

For many patients who are toying with the idea of plastic surgery, the lips are an easy place to start. When plumped up with soft tissue fillers, thin lips can take on a sultry, sexy look – ala Kylie Jenner or Angelina Jolie.  Women who want a more permanent pout can opt for implants made of a soft, flexible silicone that comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. The entire procedure is quick and relatively painless, requiring just two stitches and little downtime.

Choosing the right plastic surgeon

As with any type of facial procedure, whether it’s non-invasive or surgical, choosing the right doctor is extremely important. Always look for a surgeon who is board certified in plastic surgery and has ample experience producing natural, subtle results. Going with a less experienced or qualified doctor can lead to disastrous outcomes, even with seemingly minor treatments like Botox or lip augmentation.

Dr. B. Aviva Preminger is renowned in NYC for her exceptional touch and artistic skill in the realm of facial rejuvenation.  Thanks to her extensive training and high patient satisfaction rates for dermal fillers and other injectables, she has been deemed an ExpertInjector – an honor bestowed on a select group of providers in her field.

While Dr. Preminger hopes to help all of her patients realize their full potential, she also cautions that plastic surgery isn’t the right choice for everyone.  If you’re considering lip augmentation or any other type of cosmetic enhancement and would like to meet with Dr. Preminger, please call 212.706.1900 to book a private consultation.