Our Summary

This research paper investigates how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected public interest in plastic surgery. To do this, the authors collected and analyzed nearly 74,000 public tweets about the most popular types of plastic and cosmetic surgery. They divided the pandemic into three phases and looked at the frequency of the tweets and Google search trends during each phase. Their analysis found that tweeting about plastic surgery increased by 24% in the second phase of the pandemic but decreased by 9.1% in the third phase. They found that interest in procedures like breast augmentation, liposuction, and tummy tucks increased over time. However, interest in treatments like Botox and chemical peels only picked up again when lockdown restrictions were lifted. Overall, their analysis suggests that the pandemic has negatively affected the public’s view of plastic surgery. The researchers recommend that those in the plastic surgery field should focus more on breast augmentation, liposuction, and tummy tucks during the current phase of the pandemic. If a second wave of COVID-19 occurs, they should be prepared for a temporary increase in demand for Botox and chemical peel procedures.

FAQs

  1. How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected public interest in plastic surgery according to the research paper?
  2. What type of plastic surgery procedures saw an increase in interest during the pandemic according to the analyzed data?
  3. What is the recommendation for those in the plastic surgery field based on the analysis of public tweets and Google search trends?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering a tummy tuck to ensure they are at a stable weight before undergoing the procedure. Significant weight fluctuations after a tummy tuck can affect the results and may require additional surgery. It’s important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine to help maintain the results of the tummy tuck long-term.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, include individuals who have excess skin and fat in the abdominal area that cannot be improved through diet and exercise alone. This procedure is often recommended for patients who have:

  1. Experienced significant weight loss: Patients who have lost a significant amount of weight, either through diet and exercise or bariatric surgery, may have excess skin and tissue in the abdominal area that can only be addressed through a tummy tuck.

  2. Given birth: Women who have gone through multiple pregnancies may have stretched abdominal muscles and excess skin that do not respond to postpartum exercise. A tummy tuck can help restore a flatter and more toned abdomen.

  3. Age-related changes: As we age, our skin loses elasticity and can become lax, leading to sagging skin in the abdominal area. A tummy tuck can help tighten and firm the skin for a more youthful appearance.

  4. Genetics: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to storing excess fat in the abdominal area, leading to a protruding belly or “muffin top.” A tummy tuck can help remove excess fat and skin for a smoother and more toned abdomen.

It is important for patients considering a tummy tuck to be in good overall health, at a stable weight, and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to determine if a tummy tuck is the right procedure for individual needs and goals.

Timeline

Before tummy tuck:

  1. Patient decides to undergo tummy tuck surgery after consulting with a plastic surgeon and discussing their goals.
  2. Patient may be required to undergo certain pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure they are fit for surgery.
  3. Patient may be advised to stop smoking and avoid certain medications that can increase the risk of complications during surgery.
  4. Patient may need to make necessary arrangements for their recovery period, including arranging for someone to help them at home.
  5. Patient undergoes the tummy tuck surgery, which typically takes a few hours under general anesthesia.

After tummy tuck:

  1. Patient will experience some pain, swelling, and bruising in the abdominal area immediately after surgery.
  2. Patient will be required to follow post-operative care instructions provided by their surgeon, including wearing compression garments and taking prescribed medications.
  3. Patient will need to attend follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their healing progress.
  4. Patient will gradually see the results of the tummy tuck as swelling subsides and the abdomen becomes more toned and contoured.
  5. Patient will need to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, to sustain the results of the tummy tuck in the long term.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a tummy tuck procedure?
  2. Am I a suitable candidate for a tummy tuck surgery?
  3. What type of tummy tuck technique would be best for me?
  4. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect during this time?
  5. Will I need to follow a specific diet or exercise regimen before or after the surgery?
  6. What results can I realistically expect from a tummy tuck?
  7. How long do the results of a tummy tuck typically last?
  8. Are there any alternative procedures or treatments that may be more suitable for me?
  9. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  10. What is the cost of a tummy tuck procedure and are there any financing options available?

Reference

Authors: Liu W, Wei Z, Cheng X, Pang R, Zhang H, Li G. Journal: J Med Internet Res. 2021 Mar 16;23(3):e23970. doi: 10.2196/23970. PMID: 33608248