Plastic surgery was once something women, and some men, of a certain age did to maintain their youthful appearance. Cosmetic surgery was an expensive endeavor only afforded by people in the upper-income brackets. According to a report by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, cosmetic procedures have increased by 47 percent since 2013. Of the facial plastic surgeons surveyed, nearly ⅓ have said that they’ve noticed an increase in patients under 30 years old. Doctors think the culprit behind this uptick is social media.
The app believed to have led the charge is Snapchat. Although it’s popularity took a bit of a hit in recent years, it’s audience still remains pretty substantial because of their “beautifying filters” like fan favorites “flower crown,” “butterfly wreath,” and “beauty” filter. These dynamic filters alter the user’s face, smoothing and whitening skin, changing eye shape, nose size and jaw profile.
While these filters have been faring extremely well due to their almost universally flattering effects, especially among young women, they have also caused some concern among users who feel that the filters promote an unrealistic — and Eurocentric — standards of beauty.
