Many Opt for Surgery with a Friend

May 31, 2006
More than one-third of all patients who undergo cosmetic surgery do so with a friend or family member, according to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

According to 2005 statistics, approximately 21 percent of plastic surgeons reported a growing trend of mothers and daughters undergoing cosmetic surgery together. Couples, siblings, and friends are also pursuing plastic surgery together.

Plastic surgery experts believe that many trends are responsible for this increase in “tandem” plastic surgery. Among these factors is the overall growing popularity of plastic surgery and the dwindling taboo associated with cosmetic enhancements. Society's changing attitude about cosmetic surgery has made these procedures more popular and more accepted.

Last year alone, over ten million cosmetic procedures were performed in the United States.

According to Andrew Jacono, a plastic surgeon from New York and author of Face the Facts, “People are doing it in groups now because it is not such a taboo.”

There are many benefits of going through the experience of plastic surgery with a loved one. Preparing for surgery and recovering from surgery can be done with someone who is experiencing and understands what you are going through. It can be a tremendous support system to have as you go through surgical enhancements.

One the other hand, going under the knife next to a friend has its potential drawbacks. Patients recovering from surgery need to be cared for during the recovery process. If both you and a companion are going through recovery together, there may be no one to properly care for either of you.

According to Scott Chapin, a plastic surgeon against “tandem” surgeries, “I don't like to have them do it at the same time because one helps care for the others during the recovery process.”

To learn more about your desired procedure or to find a qualified plastic surgeon, please contact us or explore this site further.

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