More Ethnic Patients Having New York Plastic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery in NYC and the rest of the nation has gone mainstream. More than 4.9 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures were performed on Blacks, Hispanics and Asians in 2020. Ethnic patients now account for 32 percent of all cosmetic procedures, says the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

Advertising boosts popularity of New York plastic surgery procedures

The ASPS believes that increased media coverage of plastic surgery and greater numbers of ethnic models appearing in advertisements is fueling the rise in popularity of cosmetic treatments. Celebrities like Vivica Fox, Lil Kim, Janet Jackson, Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Lindsay Price and Jackie Chan have openly admitted to getting plastic surgery. Supermodel Tyra Banks went on the Piers Morgan show saying she would “most definitely” consider a little “nip and tuck” cosmetic surgery when she needs it. All these high profile cases suggest that there is no longer a stigma associated with cosmetic surgery. Much of the negative press has faded away, thanks to technological advancements and the overwhelming tide of satisfied customers. Scientific advances have also made the procedures more affordable and accessible, which has also contributed to the increase in demand.

What New York plastic surgery procedures are ethnic patients requesting most

Like anyone else, this growing tide of ethnic clients are looking to reverse signs of aging, create balance and symmetry, improve weight loss trouble spots, or enhance their natural assets. The majority of patients wish to maintain their ethnic identity and preserve their characteristics. The ASPS finds that African Americans may wish to reduce the size of their noses with a skilled ethnic rhinoplasty procedure, but maintain the shape rather than get a more “European-looking” nose. Similarly, Asian patients may come in for eyelid surgery to get a fuller, wider eye, but wish to maintain the almond shape.

Here are a few statistics from the ASPS report to consider:

• Hispanics had close to 1.9 million procedures done in 2020, making up 11% of the market.
• The most commonly requested procedures included nose reshaping, breast augmentation, and liposuction.

• African Americans had more than 1 million procedures done in 2020, making up 8% of the market.
• The most commonly requested procedures were nose reshaping, breast reduction and liposuction.

• Asian Americans had 1,207,619 procedures done in 2020, making up 8% of the market.
• The most commonly requested procedures included nose reshaping, eyelid surgery and breast augmentation.

• For all, injectable fillers, Botox and chemical peels were also popular New York plastic surgery procedures.

Cosmetic surgery in NYC

There are a few additional risks that ethnic patients must consider. Patients of African and Asian ancestry are more susceptible to keloids and hypertrophic scars, for instance. They may experience thickened, raised tissue along incision lines on the breasts, chest, shoulders and ears. However, an experienced plastic surgeon will likely recommend less invasive procedures that significantly reduce the risk of scarring. Topical treatments, medical injections and pressure therapy can all increase the odds of post-operative healing and ultimate success as well.

Another risk to be aware of is pigment irregularities. Hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) may occur with chemical peels, laser hair removal, dermabrasion, or laser skin resurfacing. The right plastic surgeon will understand how to prevent pigment problems. Patients will be counseled about the importance of UV protection and applying topical agents to promote healing. Performing a skin test and taking a more conservative approach to the procedures overall will protect the patient from unwanted side effects.

To achieve optimal results, choose an ASPS Member Surgeon like Dr. Thomas Loeb, who is board-certified to perform plastic surgery, operates in an accredited surgical facility, and adheres to a strict code of ethics. Widely considered one of the best plastic surgeons in New York City, Dr. Loeb has done work on A-list celebrities and a vast number of ethnic patients over the past 25+ years. If you are considering a plastic surgeon NYC, private consultations can be scheduled by calling 212-327-3700.