Plastic surgeons in Germany have observed that the COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the desire for an attractive face, attributed to the increase in appearances on video conferencing apps for work or personal life. The German Society of Plastic Surgeons reported on Friday that working from home, wearing masks, and video conferences have become reasons mentioned by clients seeking services such as eyelid lifts and reducing facial wrinkles more than before.
The Society's data is based on treatment numbers and surveys from clinics and hospitals affiliated with around 100 members of the largest German plastic surgery association. However, there was a slight overall decline in the interest for cosmetic surgery during the pandemic year 2020. In contrast, the Society recorded a 1.6% increase in facial treatments compared to the previous year, totaling 60,384 procedures. The Society believes this increase aligns with global trends.
Steffen Handstein, the Society's president, attributes this rise in relatively minor cosmetic surgeries mainly to increased participation in video conferences while working from home, adding that the usage of smartphones and social media, including cameras in personal life, likely contributes as well, leading to a more critical view one may have of themselves. Handstein mentioned that facial aesthetics now top all cosmetic surgeries, noting that eyelid lifts surpassed lip corrections last year, with enhancements around the eye being particularly popular among men. He further noted that showing a bright smile through the eyes has become a key means of communication during times of mask-wearing.
Conversely, there has been a slight decline in interest for cosmetic procedures for areas outside the camera's view – such as breast augmentation and liposuction of the abdomen, legs, and buttocks. According to the data, surveyed doctors recorded approximately 81,500 total treatments last year, including about 33,100 cosmetic surgeries and roughly 48,400 less invasive procedures. Compared to 2019, the total number of all cosmetic treatments slightly decreased by about 2,000 procedures. This may also be due to a decline in visits to clinics and hospitals during the pandemic due to fear of infection or because some procedures were temporarily not possible.
However, the Society emphasizes that treatments are not suitable for everyone and are not always medically justified. Despite the growing acceptance and popularity of cosmetic surgeries, the Society warns against "doubtful cheap offers."
