Mumbaikars have a nose for cosmetic surgery

We often hear film stars getting a nose job done. However, it is not the actors alone who are obsessed with their noses. Common people too are quite picky about the kind of nose they want. And it is for this reason that rhinoplasty is the most sought-after cosmetic surgery treatment in Mumbai.

Rhinoplasty involves changing the shape of the tip or the bridge, narrowing the span of the nostrils and changing the angle of the nose. “Youngsters have preconceived notions about the nose they would like to have and so they approach surgeons with photographs of actors and actresses,” said Dr Neeta Patel, Chicago Cosmetic Surgery Centre, Juhu.

Next on the list is body contouring which includes liposuction, lipectomy and abdominoplasty. Mostly, the clientele are middle-aged housewives and professionals, though tummy tuck is popular among youngsters.

“The demand for liposuction and abdominoplasty can be attributed to Bollywood actors. The current ‘six-pack’ craze and surge in interest in fitness has resulted in bringing people to the operating table,” said Dr Ashok Gupte, consultant cosmetic surgeon, Bombay Hospital.

Liposuction is followed by breast surgery - which includes augmentation or reduction of the breast. The obsession with the perfect breast has been there for a long time. In fact, breast implants became a fad in the 70s and the trend has subsided in any way. With the availability of newer and advanced silicon implants has helped to fuel the trend.

Another preferred  procedure is rhytidectomy that involves eyelid surgery, forehead lift and cheek augmentation. The demand for this, experts say, is directly related to gyms offering several weight-loss programmes. “Dramatic weight loss results in sagging skin, particularly on the face, which can be remedied by facial rejuvenation,” said Dr Satish Arolkar of the Asian Heart Institute.