According to the British Association of Plastic Surgeons the economy is proving irrepressible as 2013 data reveals a notable double-digit rise in all cosmetic procedures. The statistics from BAAPS, who represent the majority of private practice NHS-trained consultant cosmetic surgeons, demonstrate that the number of cosmetic procedures performed last year rose by 17% on average in comparison to 2012.
2013 saw 50,122 procedures carried out; every single monitored procedure showed a double digit rise. Anti-ageing surgeries have proven particularly popular amongst both men and women, with face and neck lifts up by 13%, eyelid surgery up by 14% and eyebrow lifts up by 17%. It would appear that individuals over 50 are a fast growing clientele for the cosmetic surgery industry. MYA, a UK cosmetic surgery group, have released clinical data comparing the popularity of procedures over the last two years, again proving surgical procedures are increasing.
The Daily Mail has discussed the growing number of post-menopausal women opting for cosmetic surgery to combat the signs of ageing and rectify the negative physical effects of a menopause. Whilst it is widely assumed cosmetic surgery procedures are undertaken in the name of vanity, the physical effects women experience post-menopause can be highly emotionally distressing. It comes as no surprise that women are seeking remedies.
During the menopause the levels of the reproductive hormone oestrogen decrease, making it difficult for the skin to retain moisture. This lack of moisture can result in a sagging complexion. Other physical effects include weight gain, hair thinning, facial hair growth and a decrease in collagen and elastin. The cells in a post-menopausal woman only replenish every fifty days, as opposed to a younger woman’s cells which replenish approximately every twenty six, giving a dull and sallow appearance. Ultimately these symptoms can leave women with low self-esteem and feeling unattractive.
President of BAAPs, Rajiv Grover, believes women over fifty are more likely to undergo non-surgical procedures due to the combined effects of the menopause and ageing. Grover has stated:
“When you go through the menopause, the levels of oestrogen fall and so fine wrinkles appear and the skin becomes loose and saggy.”
He subsequently added: “It’s really a non-brainer that more women over 50 are opting for non-surgical treatments.”
The figures suggest women are opting for non-surgical facelifts in a bid to tackle the long-term effects of ageing. It doesn’t necessarily suggest women over fifty are wanting to turn back the clock, it would seem subtle procedures are opted for in order to ensure they look better for longer.
