The survey conducted by Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors revealed that 12% of respondents have undergone cosmetic surgery. Interestingly, a higher percentage (52%) of respondents have considered getting cosmetic surgery, indicating a significant level of interest in such procedures. The top procedures that respondents were interested in included breast augmentation, liposuction, and rhinoplasty.

Several factors contribute to the growing interest in cosmetic surgery; the desire to improve one's appearance or correct perceived flaws may stem from societal beauty standards and the constant exposure to 'ideal' body images on social media platforms. Additionally, advances in medical technology have generally made cosmetic surgery safer and more accessible, leading to increased public awareness and acceptance.

Moreover, as social media platforms enable influencers and celebrities to share their experiences with cosmetic procedures, this further fuels curiosity and consideration among users. With the rise of 'before and after' photos and testimonials, people become more inclined to explore the possibilities of enhancing their appearance through cosmetic surgery. In the next sections, we will investigate how social media contributes to body image insecurities and the role it plays in promoting cosmetic procedures.

In addition to surgical procedures, the survey explored the popularity of non-surgical treatments. It was found that 22% of respondents have had non-surgical treatments, while a larger percentage, 49%, have considered getting such treatments. The top non-surgical procedures on respondents' wish lists were Botox, fillers, laser hair removal, and permanent makeup.

The popularity of non-surgical treatments can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, these treatments typically involve less downtime and lower risks compared to surgical procedures, making them more appealing to those seeking subtle improvements in their appearance. Additionally, non-surgical treatments are often more affordable and accessible, which further drives their demand.

Social media has also played a role in the increasing popularity of non-surgical treatments. The ease with which influencers and celebrities can share their experiences with these procedures has led to greater public exposure and acceptance. Furthermore, non-surgical treatments are often seen as less invasive and more 'socially acceptable', which may explain the higher percentage of respondents considering them compared to surgical procedures. The next sections will delve deeper into the impact of social media on body image and the promotion of cosmetic procedures.

Social media and body image.

The survey results revealed that 39% of respondents are not happy with their appearance, and 35% feel insecure about the way they look due to social media exposure. This highlights the profound impact of social media on body image and self-esteem. Among the platforms, Instagram and TikTok were found to have the most significant influence on insecurity, with 85% of respondents feeling insecure because of Instagram and 54% due to TikTok.

Social media platforms have undoubtedly played a crucial role in the rising popularity of cosmetic procedures. By constantly exposing users to seemingly perfect images of influencers and celebrities, these platforms can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction with one's appearance. As a result, many individuals may turn to cosmetic surgery or non-surgical treatments as a means to achieve the 'ideal' body image promoted on these platforms.

Furthermore, social media platforms provide an environment where cosmetic surgery providers can easily advertise their services, reaching a wider audience than ever before. Influencers, in particular, play a significant role in promoting cosmetic procedures by sharing their own experiences, thereby normalising these treatments and potentially influencing their followers to consider similar procedures. In the following sections, we will explore the responsibility of social media platforms in promoting cosmetic surgery and the accessibility of such procedures.

The role of social media platforms

The survey results indicate that various social media platforms enable the active promotion of cosmetic surgery, with Instagram leading the way at 80%, followed by TikTok at 64%, Facebook at 36%, and Twitter at 19%. This highlights the significant role these platforms play in shaping public perception and increasing the popularity of cosmetic procedures.

Social media platforms have a responsibility to monitor the use of filters and body-tweaking technology, as these can further distort the reality of body image and contribute to insecurities. An overwhelming 89% of respondents believe that social media platforms should make it clear to users when influencers are using filters and other body-altering technology. This call for transparency underlines the importance of promoting realistic and healthy body images on social media. By taking measures to increase transparency and educate users about the potential harms of filters, social media platforms can contribute to a more positive and authentic online environment.

Accessibility of cosmetic surgery 

The survey also touched upon the perception of cosmetic surgery accessibility. A notable 67% of respondents think that cosmetic surgery is too easily accessed, while 83% believe that its accessibility has increased due to social media. This demonstrates the significant influence of social media platforms on the public's perception of the availability of cosmetic procedures and the need for more responsible promotion and education on the subject.

The survey results highlight the impact of social media platforms on body image, the popularity of cosmetic surgery, and the accessibility of such procedures. It is essential for social media platforms to take responsibility for their role in promoting cosmetic surgery and influencing body image. By increasing transparency and promoting healthy attitudes towards body image, social media platforms can help users make informed decisions about cosmetic procedures. As users and consumers, we must also be critical of the content we consume and strive for a balanced perspective when considering cosmetic treatments.