Dr. Jim Gilmore, a cosmetic and plastic surgeon in Dallas, Texas, has recognized a growing number of male patients, who now account for about 50 percent of his practice. "Many of these men feel more comfortable seeking our services because of changes in attitudes about cosmetic surgery. As cosmetic surgery becomes more popular, people have become more open about it," according to Dr. Gilmore. "In the past, if I saw a patient at a social function, they were very discreet. Now many will bring their friends over and tell everyone what procedures I’ve done for them," he added. This openness tends to make men feel more comfortable with the idea of cosmetic surgery.

Today’s workforce is evolving, as well; as the workforce becomes more competitive, a greater emphasis is placed on appearance, image and, frequently, youth. "I think many men see cosmetic surgery as just another means of staying competitive," said Dr. Gilmore.

There are several procedures available to help men retain, or even achieve for the first time, the look they want. Chemical peels are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for men. This involves a chemical solution that is applied to the skin that causes the surface layers to peel off. The patient may feel a somewhat hot sensation 5 to 10 minutes immediately afterward, followed by a tingling sensation. A reaction similar to a sunburn may occur during healing, and the total healing time is typically 7 to 14 days. The result is smoother, less wrinkled skin.

Liposuction is typically associated with women, but male liposuction has increased more than 100% since 1996, and is used by men to correct "love handles," double chins and other areas of unwanted fat. New developments in liposuction include the use of "tumescent" fluid (a mixture of saline, local anesthesia and adrenaline), which is injected into the targeted area at the beginning of the procedure. The saline "melts" the fat, the adrenaline decreases the bruising, and the anesthesia provides relief from discomfort. While removing fat, cosmetic surgeons also sculpt the area, arranging it into a more desired shape.

Another attraction for many male patients is the minimal time commitment: most of these procedures require the patient to miss only one or two days from work. As technology continues to improve and simplify these procedures, and as attitudes continue to change, Dr. Gilmore and many of his colleagues expect this trend to continue.

Most Popular Cosmetic Surgery Procedures for Men

1996 and 2000

Procedure # of Procedures in 2000 # of Procedures

1996 Percent Change

From 1996 to 2000

Chemical Peel 284,626 65,861 +332%

Hair Transplant/Restoration 177,998 217,083 -18%

Liposuction 114,375 54,106 +111%

Blepharoplasty

(Eyelid Surgery) 88,384 26,202 +238%

Source: American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery

About Dr. Gilmore

Dr. Gilmore, a nationally and internationally recognized surgeon, founded his practice in Dallas, Texas more than twenty years ago. He is board certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology (head and neck surgery). Dr. Gilmore and his staff at Jim Gilmore, M.D., Associated are patient advocates committed to the integration of advanced technology, such as laser and minimally-invasive surgery requiring nominal anesthesia and recovery time, in their accredited, on-site, state-of-the-art outpatient surgical facility. For more information, call (800) 637-0144 or visit their Web site at www.jimgilmore.com.

This article was provided by www.healthnewsdigest.com