An Analysis of Aesthetic Concerns Identified by Video Conferencing

Abstract

BackgroundDuring and after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there was a significant increase in the demand for aesthetic procedures nationwide. We believe that one of the factors contributing to this increase was the use of video conferencing apps. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze the aesthetic concerns that were identified by video conferencing. MethodologyIn Saudi Arabia, an observational, cross-sectional study was conducted from February to April, 2022. An online survey was used to assess the aesthetic concerns raised by video conferencing. The survey addressed multiple aspects, including demographic data, information on video call utilization, the attentional focus of the participants during video calls, and new appearance concerns identified on video calls. ResultsThe survey successfully captured 432 adult participants. More than 85% of participants disliked at least one character of their appearance during video conferencing. The skin color type (based on the Fitzpatrick scale), time spent on video calls, and visual focus during the virtual meeting were significantly correlated with selfperception of new disliked features. ConclusionVideo conferencing showed a significant statistical correlation with identified disliked facial/body features in both genders. People with skin color type III were less likely to perceive a disliked feature through video conferencing applications. The likelihood of having a disliked feature was significantly higher among individuals who spent up to one hour per day using video calls. Additionally, those who mainly paid attention to their face or body during virtual meetings were more likely to have disliked features.

Shifts in Reduction Mammaplasty Surgical Volumes With the Emergence of a Global Pandemic

“…Survey studies have shown evidence that many of the factors driving the trend for plastic surgery procedures, both surgical and nonsurgical, include a renewed focus on self-image after the pandemic, more instances of online video calling, and a desire to improve their quality of life after the pandemic 39–41 . Online search trends similarly reflect this increased interest in plastic surgery, showing evidence that since 2020, there has been a rise in searches for various aesthetic procedures 42–44 . What the analysis in this study suggests is that there may be new factors to consider when a patient is deciding to undergo plastic surgery that may have been precipitated, instead of temporarily halted, by a worldwide viral pandemic.…”

“…[39][40][41] Online search trends similarly reflect this increased interest in plastic surgery, showing evidence that since 2020, there has been a rise in searches for various aesthetic procedures. [42][43][44] What the analysis in this study suggests is that there may be new factors to consider when a patient is deciding to undergo plastic surgery that may have been precipitated, instead of temporarily halted, by a worldwide viral pandemic.…”

“…Evidence in the literature shows that, after the first year of the pandemic, there has been increased interest and demand for plastic surgery procedures driven by factors surrounding the new norm of the pandemic. 39,[42][43][44] These findings provide additional evidence for factors potentially contributing to patients pursuing reduction mammoplasty post-COVID including convenience resulting from time off due to pandemic, meeting insurance-covered reduction criteria, and projected recovery time.…”