Dr. Saber’s Blog

What Impact Does Social Media Have on Plastic Surgery Trends?

There is a direct link between social media and plastic surgery trends. Social media platforms are valuable tools for promoting plastic surgery procedures with displays of before and after transformations.

Since the pandemic, there has been an unprecedented demand for cosmetic procedures directly related to time spent on social media.

One such trend is men paying to have their nipples reconstructed to look more like David Beckham’s nipples. This procedure involves extracting breast tissue from underneath the nipples and sewing them back up to give a smaller appearance.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) plastic surgery statistics from 2023 reflect this demand. The 2023 results showed a 5% rise in plastic surgeries and a 7% rise in noninvasive procedures compared to 2022.

What Impact Does Social Media Have on Plastic Surgery Trends?

About 25.4 million minimally invasive cosmetic procedures were performed in 2023. The top 5 were:

But there is a downside to social media influence—unrealistic expectations. Photoshopped and filtered images present idealized versions of beauty that are unattainable.

 Some people follow dangerous cosmetic surgery trends to their detriment—mainly due to a lack of medical knowledge and expertise. Patients request treatments or surgical procedures based on these trends without knowing the risks and limitations.

Dr. Sepidah Saber is a board-certified plastic surgeon at Saber Plastic Surgery.  Dr. Saber provides patients with information to make informed decisions to reduce patient risk. Dr. Saber does not support or recommend these dangerous trends.

Some of the dangerous new trends in plastic surgery include:

Cat or fox eye lift

A cat or fox eye lift creates an elongated, upward-slanting eye like a fox or cat. Dr. Saber does not perform or recommend the procedure for several reasons—potential nerve damage, vision changes, eye closure limitations, and eye position asymmetry.

Thread lift

thread lift tightens and lifts sagging and excess skin on the face and neck using threads embedded in the skin. These threads are attached to tiny hooks and pulled for skin tightening. The skin tightening persists until the threads dissolve (three weeks).

Dr. Saber does not perform this procedure due to a high risk of complications such as scarring. The results are short-lived, unpredictable, and sometimes asymmetrical.

High-volume liposuction

Large-volume liposuction is a more complex and physiologically different procedure than traditional liposuction—small-volume fat removal. Large-volume liposuction removes more than five liters of total volume from the body.

Dr. Saber does not recommend this procedure due to complications related to fluid shifts and fluid balance in the body. When performed by untrained plastic surgeons’ serious complications or death can occur.

Dimpleplasty

Dimpleplasty is dimple plastic surgery. It involves piercing through layers of the face—cheek area—from the inside out and removing muscle and fat. Then, the inner layers of tissue are fixed in place to create a dimple.

The dangers include facial nerve injury, abscess formation, excessive scarring, and asymmetry. Dr. Saber warns that this is a disturbing trend because the results are irreversible.

Since the pandemic, there has been an unprecedented demand for cosmetic procedures directly related to time spent on social media.

High-volume Brazilian butt lift

A high-volume Brazilian butt lift (BBL) involves fat transfer from an area where fat is undesirable to the buttocks where fat grafting will enhance the region.

What is the most dangerous plastic surgery? A Brazilian butt lift. Dr. Saber explained the gluteal region is full of major blood vessels. An inexperienced surgeon may insert the cannula (hollow tubing) too deep causing fat to enter the bloodstream (fat embolism).

Because high-volume BBLs are more invasive, there is a higher risk of fat embolism. The BBL mortality rate is higher than any other cosmetic surgery—as high as 1 in every 3,000 cases. Current Brazilian butt lift statistics show a downward trend due to a trend toward a more natural look.

Dr. Saber performs BBLs (low volume) with safe results but only performs high-volume BBLs under limited circumstances.

Buttock implants

Patients who request buttock enhancements but don’t have excess fat to harvest for a BBL, often opt for buttock implants. Buttock enhancement surgery takes several hours with a long recovery. While many people like their results, there’s a high risk of complications.

When buttock implants are surgically placed above the gluteal muscle, they can look unnatural. When placed below the gluteal muscle, they can cause sciatic nerve damage.

Dr. Saber does not recommend buttock implant surgery for these reasons.

Permanent facial fillers

Permanent facial fillers are made from non-biodegradable material (silicone). As facial features change with age, these fillers no longer appear natural. 

According to one study, 64.6% of patients with permanent facial fillers develop complications, and 15.3% require removal.

Dr. Saber recommends standard dermal fillers, which are long-lasting but temporary. If you’re unhappy with the results, there are enzyme products to dissolve them.

Bicep or calf implants 

Bicep or calf implants are popular for those unable to develop these muscles through exercise and weightlifting. A surgeon makes an incision and inserts molded implants, enhancing the bicep or calf.

These implants may come with benefits for those with congenital muscle deformities. However, Dr. Saber does not recommend placing these implants for aesthetic purposes as they come with the risk of implant displacement or rupture–which can result in an uneven or unnatural appearance.

Abdominal etching

Abdominal etching removes undesirable fat from the abdomen, creating distinct lines that shape and highlight the abdominal muscles—”six-pack abs.”

Dr. Saber’s expert opinion is that they look unnatural and don’t align with other body features. With aging and weight gain the abdomen has a lumpy, distorted appearance.

Leg Lengthening Surgery

Leg lengthening surgery to compensate for short stature is a multi-hour, traumatic operation that involves breaking the tibia and fibula bones in two places. Potential complications include nonunion or malunion, re-fracture, and osteomyelitis.

“This is a bad idea and can’t be compared to cosmetic surgeries,” says Dr. Saber. “With a limb lengthening procedure, one must break the tibia and fibula on both sides. These are our weight-bearing bones. Potential complications could be nonunion (bones don’t heal), malunion (bones heal in poor position/slightly off), re-fracture, and osteomyelitis (an infection in the bone).”

When is it too much plastic surgery?

When is it too much plastic surgery?

Justin Jedica, “the human Ken doll”, is the best example of someone at the extreme undergoing plastic surgery treatments. He’s had over 1000 cosmetic procedures including 23 implants, a deep plane facelift, a mid-face lift, a mid-face temporal suspension, a brow lift, and an upper lid lift.

Dr. Saber explained that this number of implants can lead to a serious infection if one of the implants ruptures, leading to sepsis–resulting in the removal of all implants. This could seriously affect him physically and emotionally.

Why is cosmetic surgery around to stay?

Despite these dangerous trends, technological advancements in cosmetic surgery offer safe, minimally invasive procedures with limited downtime and better outcomes. Trends in cosmetic surgery have shifted toward requests for customization (individualized treatment) and a more natural-looking result. Bigger is no longer better.

The biggest trends in 2024 include:

Trends in plastic surgery are fleeting. But plastic surgery is a reputable medical specialty with time-tested procedures that will continue to make a significant difference in patient’s lives.

Why you owe it to yourself to consult with Saber Plastic Surgery

Dr. Sepideh Saber is a board-certified plastic surgeon providing cosmetic procedures and surgeries from a more sensitive, female perspective for patients of all ages, genders, and orientations. She ensures thatall questions are answered so that each patient can make a truly well-informed decision.

Keeping her patients safe remains her top priority. She employs the latest state-of-the-art techniques and performs her procedures in the top surgical centers and hospitals, where she enjoys full admitting privileges.

Dr. Saber is located in Encino, CA for patients throughout the Los Angeles area. We are also convenient to Encino, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Calabasas, Burbank, Glendale, Hidden Hills, Agoura Hills, Northridge, North Hollywood, Malibu, Topanga, Canoga Park, Reseda, Valley Glen, Chatsworth, West Hills, Winnetka, Universal City, Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Downtown Los Angeles, Silverlake, and Echo Park.

To request a consultation, please make an appointment online or call us at (877) 205-4100 or click here.

Saberstarbox
  • GET THE LATEST saber plastic surgery news
    in your inbox

  • explore our
    blog articles by category

  • Categories

  • 834 Posts
    1.8K Followers

    Dr. Sepideh Saber, MD, FACS

    👩🏻‍⚕️ Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
    🏫 Stanford/USC/NYU Trained
    🏥 Encino, CA | Book a Free Consult
    ☎️ (833) 215-0500
    💌 info@saberplasticsurgery.com

    Our patient came in for a Panniculectomy without liposuction, and is 6 weeks Post- Op. We are thrilled with her results!⏳👙

To set up a complimentary consultation ✨

833-215-0500
Info@saberplasticsurgery.com
saberplasticsurgery.com

#plasticsurgeon #breastaugmentation #beforeandafter #beauty #cosmeticsurgeon #plasticsurgery #breastsurgery #losangeles #facelift #breastimplants  #lipinjections #botox #bbl #filler #breastlift #saline #chinlipo #liposuction #defined #consultation
    Thank you for the kind review! So glad I could create natural-looking results and help you feel your best. 💉✨

#cosmeticsurgeon #plasticsurgery #plasticsurgeonlosangeles #losangeles #liposuctionlosangeles #drsaberplasticsurgery
    Pregnancy and childbirth can take a toll on your body, but you don’t have to struggle alone. A mommy makeover can help restore your confidence by addressing changes like sagging skin and stretch marks. 🌸✨ Curious if it's right for you? Learn more here: https://bit.ly/4fQMzxf 

#MommyMakeover #BodyConfidence #PostBabyGlow #cosmeticsurgeon #plasticsurgery #plasticsurgeonlosangeles #losangeles #liposuctionlosangeles #drsaberplasticsurgery
    3 musketeers 🤗❤️
    ✨A beautiful breast reduction by Dr. Saber! We are absolutely thrilled with her results✨

Give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with #DrSaber who will create a customized plan for you!

____________________________
⁠
⭐️To set up a consultation:⁠
🔸 Call : (833) 215-0500⁠
🔸 info@saberplasticsurgery.com ⁠
🔸 saberplasticsurgery.com
____________________________

  #breastaugmentation #breastsurgery #breastreduction #liposuction #tummytuck  #tummytucksurgery #abdominoplasty #tummytuckjourney #MommyMakeover #otoplasty #earpinning #earreshaping
#plasticsurgery  #plasticsurgeon 
#defined #chinlipo #necklipo  #hourglass 
#cosmeticsurgeon  #HourGlassBySaber #ContouredBySaber #bodybydrsaber  #drsaberpatient #SaberPlasticSurgery #honestplasticsurgeon #beforeandafter #beauty #losangeles

  • What patients say about Dr. Saber

    4.8
    Over 16 Reviews

    I was fortunate to find Dr. Saber after researching board-certified surgeons who specialize in breast cancer reconstruction revision surgery. I knew I was in good hands from the moment I spoke with the lovely and efficient Marlene, Dr Saber's office manager. Dr Saber patiently listened to my concerns and, after examining me, explained what I could realistically expect the outcome to be from another surgery. She also explained to me that she would need to review my previous surgery notes before we could discuss a possible further surgery, which I found comforting and highly ethical. I also discussed a couple of other procedures that I would like done, including fat removal from my large upper arms that had caused me great embarrassment for several years. Dr. Saber is an excellent surgeon who is incredibly kind and genuine. She truly understands the female body and the emotional aspect of body insecurities yet, she is transparent about what can and cannot be done and takes time to discuss realistic expectations and outcomes. My breast reconstruction revision surgery will take place in the New Year, but in the meantime, I have the most fabulous upper arms that I recently flaunted in a strapless dress (something I have not done in years). Dr Saber is truly one of a kind, and I still cannot believe how fortunate I am to have found her. I highly recommend Dr Saber.

    Linda DeCarlo November 29, 2023

    I don’t have enough wonderful words to describe Dr Saber and Marlene! I had a tummy tuck done this year and from start to finish the entire experience was amazing. Marlene is always so helpful and works so hard to make every detail a breeze for you. When I had my consultation with Dr Saber I was at a point of complete agony with my body. She instantly took that stress and frustration off my shoulders! As a woman not being heard by doctors for years I left that consultation with happy tears knowing I had finally found my Dr. It was a major surgery and I felt completely zen and at peace going in because she really does make you feel that safe. I didn’t think I would ever look the way I do now! She gave me the gift of having the body I kept fighting for. I will never stop recommending her.

    Monica Prusa October 9, 2023

    I saw Dr. Saber when I broke my wrist. I ended up having to have surgery. She did an excellent job and I am healing nicely. She was very professional, but was also very kind and compassionate. I would highly recommend her!!

    Sandy Schaupp September 13, 2022

    I LOVED DR SABER!!! There are a few reasons why I chose her. One was because she’s a female Doctor that was my goal who also did a good job (which I was able to confirm with all her before and after photos) and what sold me was my safety in mind. She made me feel like I was in the best hands ever along with Marlene who coordinated everything THANK YOU LADIES! Dr Saber helped me get back the body I have always desired. I had a lot of stomach fat from weight gain and I lost weight so a lot of my weight was in my front lower and upper abdomen. Now I have a super beautiful curvy body like an hourglass after a tummy tuck and lipo she did. She understood the assignment hahaha . I’m 32 years old no kids just wanted to enjoy my younger body looking and feeling beautiful and she really took good care of me. Even after hours I had an emergency due to my fault but she was there and got back to me very quickly and I’m very grateful. I also think her work says a lot because I stopped taking pain medication on the 3rd day after surgery and was fine with very minimal pain I was able to tolerate the healing process. Highly recommend going with her I just had a wonderful experience and would do it all over again if I had too. Maybe after I have kids. Thanks Dr Saber and team <3

    STEPHANIE d July 15, 2022

    Dr.Saber is by far one of the best plastic surgeons. I love how she takes her time to explain any procedure to the patients understanding. She always makes sure to answers any and all questions.From fillers to body contours she’s the one you want.

    Katherine Melara February 15, 2022

    Dr Saber is amazing! She is caring and very informative. I went in for fillers and she explained procedure step by step. I highly recommend her and look forward to future visits.

    Amanda Vazquez December 18, 2020

    Dr. Saber was friendly, knowledgeable and professional. She took time to listen, answer all my questions and was forthright in her recommendations. Her staff was friendly and helpful. I was very happy with the results and plan on going back. If you are looking for a first rate professional experience look no further she is the doctor for you!

    T R December 18, 2020

    Dr. Saber is one of a kind plastic surgeon with a heart of gold. She is a well verse plastic surgeon that puts her patient's needs before anything else. She genuinely cares about every single patient, and her work speaks for itself. I notice every post-operative result on her Instagram (@saberplasticsurgery) the patients have this glow that radiates through. I have been going to Dr. Saber for my Botox for the past 3 years, and love the results every time. I know who I will be going to for any future plastic surgery needs, and will confidently refer family and friends to Dr. Saber for any Botox, fillers, and plastic surgery consultations.

    Rudy Garcia December 16, 2020

    I have nothing but great things to say about Dr. Saber! I am so pleased with my results from a breast augmentation she performed on me back in late June! She answered all my questions and concerns before and after my surgery. She’s very easy to get in contact with and she’s so nice. She made feel so comfortable throughout the whole process. 100/10 Lover her work!!

    Amanda Villegas October 15, 2020

    Dr Saber is hands down the best surgeon! She took her time answering my questions and explained procedure in detail. After doing liposuction six months ago, I am extremely happy with my results and I appreciate her so much.

    Marlene Cosentino October 15, 2020

    Dr. Saber is so kind and thorough with her patients! She is an amazing doctor and genuinely cars about everyone she comes in contact with. I would recommend her to anyone for any hand surgery or cosmetic procedure.

    Rachel Meach October 15, 2020