Rise in Ethnic Plastic Surgery

Ethnic plastic surgery procedures have more than quadrupled since 2000.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons describes a 243 percent increase from 2000 to 2010. These days having cosmetic procedures are a mainstream, everyday occurrence. Patients of every ethnicity and income level set some money aside for enhancing their appearance.

In 2010 alone there were 13.1 million cosmetic procedures performed. 25 percent of all cosmetic procedures in 2010 were in “ethnic” patients, described for purposes of the study as Asian, Black, or Hispanic. Seeing great results in ethnic patients reduces the fear for other ethnic patients, and brings awareness that one can achieve an enhanced appearance while maintaining one’s ethnic appearance.

It’s important to note that the vast majority of ethnic patients having plastic surgery do not want to escape their identity or “look Caucasian”, but rather want to enhance their own beauty.

Trends by ethnic group in 2010:

Asian Patients: Made up six percent of all cosmetic procedures in 2010. Most common procedures: nose reshaping, eyelid surgery, breast augmentation.

African American Patients: Made up eight percent of all cosmetic procedures in 2010. Most common procedures: nose reshaping, breast reduction, liposuction.

Hispanic Patients: Made up 11 percent of all cosmetic procedures in 2010. Most common procedures: nose reshaping, breast augmentation, liposuction.

In terms of surgical risk, ethnic patients are at increased risk of issues such as hypertrophic scarring, keloids, or pigment issues, whether along incisions or generalized over an area treated with peels or lasers. There can be hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, in some cases treatable and temporary, and in other cases permanent.

Prior to undergoing any procedure or nonsurgical treatment, the surgeon and patient should have a thorough discussion of possible risks and how to minimize them and get the best possible result.