Increasing numbers of brides-to-be each year have taken the extra step of including cosmetic surgery or non-surgical treatments on their list of pre-wedding preparations. After all, those photos will last for life!
However, the “Bridalplasty” TV show that has just aired in the USA has taken this trend into reality TV.

As the UK tends to lead Europe in style and beauty trends, so the UK in turn tends to follow trends in the USA, although with a unique GB twist.

Based on a series of interviews with leading plastic surgeons in the USA, The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), of board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in cosmetic surgery has predicted 10 hot trends for cosmetic surgery and non-surgical aesthetic treatments for 2011.

Ageing is a natural process and for many there comes a point where no amount of cream or sensible care can turn back time.

Perhaps that’s why BAAPs (the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) has just released figures showing a 12% increase in face lifts for 2010, with more women and men opting to have the procedure to lift back the loose skin to reveal a smoother, fresher facial profile.

With new research from Mintel suggesting that half of UK adults would have cosmetic surgery if they could afford it, clearly cosmetic surgery is still on the up, defying the recession. In fact, The Hospital Group, the UK’s leading cosmetic surgery provider, has reported a massive 14% increase in enquiries for cosmetic surgery in 2011 so far, with enquiries from men up a staggering 36%.

This growth is great news for the industry and the economy, but does come with a caution for those considering cosmetic surgery.

With increasing exposure on TV and in magazines, it’s easy to consider cosmetic surgery as a kind of extreme makeover. However, experts warn that any surgery carries a certain amount of risk and those considering it should be fully aware of the complete story before making any decisions – how much pain/discomfort to expect, how long recovery will take and what complications need to be considered.

Mario Russo, one of The Hospital Group’s top Plastic Surgeons, gives sensible advice for anyone considering cosmetic surgery.