Gifting Plastic Surgery this Holiday Season

With the holiday season upon us, we begin the hunt for the most thoughtful gifts for our loved ones. But what about that person in your life who already has it all — from the latest kitchen gadgets to a few new wrinkles? Have you ever considered the gift of plastic surgery? If so, you’re not alone. Since this trend took hold in 2012, cosmetic surgeons across the country have reported a noticeable spike in rhinoplasty, breast augmentation and anti-aging skin treatments during December and January that were given as holiday presents.

Who is giving the gift of a refined nose, a fuller bust, or smooth skin this holiday season? According to New York City plastic surgeon Dr. B. Aviva Preminger and other reputable surgeons, the gift of cosmetic enhancement is popular between spouses, parents and their children, siblings and friends. In other words, just about everyone, given the wide range of procedures available, many of which entail little to no downtime.

A holiday gift that boosts self-confidence

With men and women wanting to look their freshest at holiday parties and family get-togethers, the demand for non-invasive skin treatments and surgeries is up by as much as 30 percent in December. Vouchers for Botox injections, fillers and laser skin surfacing are particularly popular gifts among sisters and besties who want to kick off the New Year looking fabulous.

But Christmas stockings may hold pricier gift cards too. Men have gifted their wives everything from neck lifts to breast implants and facelifts, while high school and college students may get the new nose they’ve always wanted from mom and dad. Some women have also been giving the man in their lives vouchers for liposuction, which can tackle bulging bellies and stubborn love handles.

Given the universal acceptance of plastic surgery, such gifts are typically well-received, if not encouraged. People are no longer ashamed to admit to having a nip or a tuck, and even brag about their physical makeovers on social media. More importantly, however, is the notable effect on one’s self-esteem. We want to see our loved ones happy and cosmetic enhancement can positively affect confidence for years to come.

A few tips on gifting plastic surgery

Before plunking down cash on a plastic surgery gift card for your family member, friend or partner, consider these tips offered by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons: 

• Listen carefully to your loved one’s cosmetic concerns and desires
• If they haven’t mentioned a specific procedure or treatment they’d like to have, contact a reputable plastic surgeon to discuss possible options and price estimates
• Present a voucher or gift card with your intentions
• Have the recipient book an in-person consultation with the surgeon, who can ensure candidacy and make relevant recommendations 

Of course, the recipient will always have the final word on whether or not they will pursue such a gesture. But under the right circumstances, plastic surgery gifts are heartily appreciated.

If you are interested in gifting a special someone in your life with cosmetic surgery this holiday season, Dr. Preminger is one of Manhattan’s premier plastic surgeons, offering attentive patient care to thousands of local and fly-in patients every year. Request a private consultation using the online form or call her Park Avenue office at 212.706.1900.