As 2014 comes to a close, it’s fun to take a look back at the top stories of the year. There were some exciting developments in the cosmetic industry this year — some of them positive, and others very sad. The team at Burt & Will Plastic Surgery and Laser Centre has compiled a list of the top five plastic surgery stories of this year. Take a look and see if you remember any of them!
1. Amateur Plastic Surgery Continues to Cause Injuries
Some of the saddest stories involve patients bypassing qualified plastic surgeons and having dangerous “DIY” procedures from amateurs to save money on cosmetic procedures.
In July, CNN reported on a hairstylist from Florida named Apryl Brown, who had silicone injected into her buttocks by a stranger with the hope of improving her appearance. She almost died from a related staph infection and eventually had her hands, feet and the flesh around her buttocks and hips amputated to save her life.
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. The news is filled with similar stories, and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons cautions that “DIY” plastic surgery is a growing problem.
2. Potential New Uses for Botox Emerge
It seems that every year, scientists find a new use for Botox. Known primarily as a wrinkle-smoothing cosmetic injectable, Botox can also be used to treat excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) and eyelid spasms.
In August, research from Columbia University Medical Center showed that Botox could potentially be used to treat stomach cancer. The theory is that Botox will help to halt the development of stomach tumors and make them more vulnerable to chemotherapy.
There is plenty more research to be conducted, and in the meantime, plastic surgeons will continue to offer Botox to reduce the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles.
3. Eyelid Surgery May Treat Migraines
Eyelid surgery is commonly performed to rejuvenate the eye area by treating loose, saggy skin on the upper eyelids as well as puffy lower lids. In some cases, eyelid surgery can even improve the line of sight by tightening the lids. A new study shows an additional benefit: treatment of migraine headaches.
Some migraines occur when sensory nerves from the brain to the face are compressed. During eyelid surgery, doctors can work through the existing incisions and easily free the trapped nerves, therefore alleviating migraine pain.
4. “Selfies” Cause Rise in Demand for Plastic Surgery
According to a report from the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, social media has caused a rise in requests for plastic surgery. One in three plastic surgeons surveyed noted an increase in the demand for plastic surgery because of patients being more aware of their looks, thanks to “selfies” and shared pictures.
The most requested “selfie”- inspired procedures include Botox injections and rhinoplasty. Hand rejuvenation is also popular amongst women who become engaged and want to post pictures of their engagement rings.
5. Brazilian Butt Lift Gains Popularity
One of the most popular procedures of the year was Brazilian Butt Lift, a body contouring procedure in which surplus fat is liposuctioned from an area of the patient’s body (e.g., abdomen, thighs, hips) and injected into the buttocks to add shape and fullness. Patients love the Brazilian Butt Lift because in addition to enhancing the buttocks, the liposuctioned area looks slimmer and more toned.
For more information about Brazilian Butt Lift or any of the procedures offered at Burt & Will Plastic Surgery and Laser Centre, please contact our office today.