by Margo A. Ragan
Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?” In the past, chances were very high that a female would be looking into that magic mirror and asking that question. Times, however, have changed. Today a male is very likely to be looking at his features critically and seeking ways to make himself look younger and more attractive. His reasons for seeking a form of plastic surgery are as much a reflection of the times as a personal choice to look better.
According to a research study conducted by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in 2006, approximately 12% of all liposuction procedures were performed on men. The amount of money expended for that same year is staggering. Americans spent more than $10.1 billion dollars on cosmetic surgeries. Adults between the ages of 31 and 45 spent the most money, with baby boomers, persons between 45 and 60, in second place. One can safely conclude that these numbers have only risen exponentially as acceptance of cosmetic surgeries has increased.
Plastic surgery has come a long way from its historical roots that sadly can be found in warfare. During World War I the military suffered horrendous wounds to the face and body which required physicians to seek innovative restorative procedures to help their patients. It is ironic that the quest to look better and younger sprang from such a painful period of time. Interestingly, the word “plastic” is derived from a Greek word meaning to mold or give form. It does not mean plastic or artificial as we commonly understand the word. Plastic surgery is now accepted as a means for correcting body issues, and research studies indicate that for many Americans plastic surgery is now a part of a lifestyle decision.
On the local level, Dr. Richard Goldfarb, who heads the Center for SmartLipo in Langhorne, believes the number of persons undergoing cosmetic procedures has grown higher in recent years. “At the Center for SmartLipo, we have noted a significant increase in the number of male patients,” Dr. Goldfarb said. “Prior to this economic downturn, our patient population was approximately 95% female, 5% male. That number has changed to an 80%, 20% ratio.”
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