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More men opting for facial plastic surgery, study shows

A recent study shows that more men are opting for facial plastic surgery, with male plastic surgery growing by 8% in the last year. This trend is driven by factors such as lifestyle changes, career competitiveness, and increased exposure to one's appearance through video conferencing and social media. Popular procedures for men include eyelid surgery, nose surgery, and facelifts, with many seeking to maintain a youthful, masculine appearance without drastically altering their identity.

March 27, 2025

Plastic surgery has long been considered something women do to look their best and turn back the clock. However, more men are seeking plastic surgery as part of their health and fitness routines.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, male plastic surgery has grown by 8 percent in the last year, and this trend is expected to continue.

Dr. Stephen Prendiville, a facial plastic surgeon in Fort Myers, Florida, confirms this trend. He notes that while appearance is more strongly tied to the female psyche, there are situations that lead men to seek facial aesthetic surgery. These situations can include lifestyle changes like divorce, a new job, or re-entering the dating scene.

Men are also retiring later in life and want to remain competitive in the workplace by maintaining a youthful appearance, according to Dr. Prendiville. Additionally, remote workers who spend extended periods looking at themselves during Zoom meetings and video conferences may notice things they want to change. Social media, where celebrities openly discuss their facial rejuvenation, also contributes to this desire to look as young as they feel. The topic is losing its taboo status.

Television shows like “Yellowstone” have also inspired men to seek a firmer, more chiseled jawline similar to those seen on actors like Kevin Costner.

The most popular facial plastic surgery procedures for men in Southwest Florida include eyelid surgery to remove excess skin or bags under the eyes, nose surgery, and facelifts to eliminate jowls and create a more muscular jawline, sometimes with the addition of chin implants.

Dr. Prendiville notes that men are motivated to address these concerns but also fear being feminized, looking strange, or altering their identity. He adds that their interest is often piqued when they realize this is unlikely to happen and that they won’t look like someone else.

Facial plastic surgeons often reference musician Kenny Rogers, who looked drastically different after his facial plastic surgery, as an example of what to avoid.

Procedures for men must be appropriately aggressive yet conservative to maintain proper function, male aesthetics, and identity.

The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) expects the male facial plastic surgery boom to continue for many years. A recent survey of its members revealed that 44 percent anticipate more men undergoing surgeries and treatments in the future.

Choosing the right surgeon is as important as selecting the right procedure. Dr. Prendiville advises against starting research in Facebook groups or social media chat rooms.

Instead, he recommends starting with reputable websites like Real Self, a large online marketplace where people can learn about cosmetic procedures, share their experiences, and connect with providers. Millions of people visit Real Self each month to read patient reviews, view before-and-after photos, and find expert answers to help them determine which treatments and providers are worthwhile. Dr. Prendiville has been inducted into the Real Self 100 and 500 Hall of Fame for his contributions to answering questions from the public.

Steve Jurich, CEO and executive vice president of the AAFPS, emphasizes the importance of credentials when selecting a board-certified facial plastic surgeon. He advises that one should always select a surgeon specifically trained in procedures of the face, head, and neck, and ensure that the physician is qualified, experienced, and board-certified in the desired procedure.

For more information about the American Academy of Facial and Reconstructive Surgery, visit www.aafprs.org. More information about Dr. Prendiville is available at www.drprendiville.com.