San Diego Plastic Surgeons See Rise in Male Cosmetic Surgery

SAN DIEGO, CA, January 03, 2013 (Press-News.org) The number of men undergoing cosmetic surgery in San Diego is seeing significant increases due to decreasing social stigma placed on cosmetic surgery procedures for men, according to San Diego cosmetic plastic surgeon Dr. John T. Alexander II at Alexander Cosmetic Surgery (http://www.alexandersurgery.com).

"Cosmetic procedures never really were just for women," explains Dr. Alexander. "But now, more men are finally realizing they have every right to look their best, too."

Alexander Cosmetic Surgery in San Diego is not the only practice seeing an increase in male cosmetic surgery procedures. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reports that men had 1.2 million cosmetic procedures in 2011 alone. This number is an increase of 6 percent from the previous year. Minimally invasive procedures saw an 8 percent increase year-over-year among male patients.

"There's a lot of buzz about the pressure society puts on women and their appearance. The truth is, men also feel this pressure, but they often don't talk about it as much," Dr. Alexander says. "May men have careers that depend heavily on their looks. If they don't look strong and competent, especially as they age, it may affect how others relate to them or their ability to lead."

Dr. Alexander adds that a lot of the procedures he performs on men are minimally invasive, like BOTOX Cosmetic. At his San Diego practice, men are learning the value of "less is more" and discovering that major reconstruction isn't always necessary to look their best.

"For a lot of men in San Diego, liposuction of a small area like the 'love handles' or under the chin is all that's needed to make a major difference," notes Dr. Alexander. "People don't realize how many years fat adds to their face and body. Some minor sculpting can take decades off your appearance."

For facial rejuvenation, men often choose rhinoplasty (a nose job) and eyelid surgery, or a combination eye and brow lift. The quick recovery times and effective, natural-looking results make these surgeries more appealing to men.

In addition to improving physical appearance, cosmetic surgeries can also help improve a man's self-image. For example, men who suffer from gynecomastia, or male breast development, may have lived with years of teasing and bullying. Male breast reduction removes excess tissue to reveal a more masculine profile, dramatically improving these patients' quality of life.

"Cosmetic surgery isn't just about looks," clarifies Dr. Alexander. "Men feel better about themselves when they look in the mirror after their procedures. Their self-esteem goes up. Work performance can improve, and relationships can go smoother. You might have gone in for a little lipo, but you're coming out with the whole package."

Alexander Cosmetic Surgery (http://www.alexandersurgery.com) has been San Diego's leader in facial rejuvenation and cosmetic plastic surgery since 1964. Led by father and son duo, Drs. John T. Alexander, M.D., and John T. Alexander II, M.D., F.A.C.S., J.D., the clinic has a history of patient dedication and care, while leading the way with innovative treatments such as the QuickLift procedure.