20 October 2011
Private healthcare figures have shown that most aesthetic surgery procedures deemed 'cosmetic' are non-invasive.
One beauty expert suggested that people are turning to popular cosmetic procedures in a bid to look their best in the current economic climate.
Beautician Zara Rabinowicz said that people feel under more pressure nowadays to look young and be seen as attractive - whether it is to compete in a more challenging job market or to be comparable to celebrities.
She added: "In the UK the most popular cosmetic procedures are rhinoplasty and breast enlargement, which could potentially be linked to the sexualisation of our culture and the celebrities."
Over 90 per cent of procedures are non-surgical treatments such as injectables and lasers, according to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS).
The cost of cosmetic surgery will shortly be subject to VAT following new guidance issued by HM Revenue and Customs.
The BAAPS has shown support for this initiative, but also warned people against going abroad for procedures that cost less but may have a detrimental effect on their health.
Posted by Philip Briggs.
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