When one's job prospects are affected by their appearance, or when they are bombarded by gorgeous celebrities in the media, it is natural that one starts to be more critical about their looks. For some, this may be a lifelong insecurity that they learn to live with while some may turn to cosmetic surgery to alter parts of their appearance that they're not satisfied with.

COVID-19, Masks, and Plastic Surgery

With COVID-19 came the wearing of masks. In some countries, it may be strongly advised but not enforced, and in Singapore, it is compulsory to wear a mask when we're outside.

Masks cover half of our faces when we're out, and they're something that protects us and others from airborne particles. But they're also something used often by those who have received plastic surgery on their face to hide the bruising and bandages that often come with surgery.

In Korea, the plastic surgery capital of the world, many are taking advantage of this mandate for masks to undergo surgeries they might've put off due to the recovery period and the bruising that might occur then.

Furthermore, with the pandemic came the push for remote working accommodation to minimise the amount of interaction between people. This means that patients who are still recovering from their surgeries can continue working from home (or hospital) without having to spend a week's worth of leave for their surgery.

Worth about US$10.7 billion in 2020, the industry is expected to increase to US$11.8 billion this year according to Gangnam Unni, Korea's largest online cosmetic surgery platform. The platform has also experienced a 63 per cent surge in their user base last year.

Popular Plastic Surgery Treatments

Dr. Rhee Se Whan from Grand Plastic Surgery Seoul has noted an increase in nose jobs amongst his patients, likely due to the fact that the bruising and swelling that comes from this procedure can easily be covered by a mask.

He also noted that there are more patients who look for body contouring and liposuction treatments and explained that the restrictions resulted in many not working out as much, thus gaining weight during the pandemic. In addition, these patients can still continue working while they recuperate at home.

While these treatments are popular because of the opportunity to recover in the comfort of their homes, there have also been treatments done on the more visible parts of the face.

Dr. Park Cheol-woo from WooAhIn Plastic Surgery Clinic has commented that there has also been an increase in procedures that are visible, such as the eyes, eyebrows, nose bridge, and forehead. Although these areas cannot be hidden, it is likely that many have opted for them to enhance their looks even when they are only wearing a mask.

Lastly, the Zoom effect, where video calls with others often act as digital mirrors, resulting in many scrutinising their looks during an online meeting. This has thus increased the demand for Botox treatments.

Before Getting Plastic Surgery

While it may be tempting to enhance your appearance with plastic surgery, always set aside time to think through your decision. It is easy to be swayed by the media into thinking that you need surgery, but know that you are fine the way you are. Don't look to plastic surgery as a confidence booster. Instead, plastic surgery should be there to help you achieve a certain look you desire.

Remember to do extensive research before getting your surgery done. There are many platforms like Gangnam Unni, Medical Departures, and RealSelf that you can use to have a better understanding of the surgeries offered and what might be best for you.

Never go for the cheapest option without proper research — your health and future is more important than any amount of money saved, so make sure that the clinic and surgeon are reputable and there are no issues in communication.

That being said, plan ahead to save up for your surgery. Depending on the procedure, plastic surgeries can cost upwards of USD 10,000 ****for major surgeries. Make sure that your surgery does not land you in debt.

Finally, only get plastic surgery if you really need it. If there is another less invasive way to achieve your desires, you can research about them instead.

Source: (1), (2)