Many people are keeping cosmetic procedures secret from their partners and close friends, according to a new report. From Botox injections to breast enhancements, individuals spend thousands of pounds but hope no one notices. Some surgeons estimate up to 70% of their clients do not tell others about their aesthetic procedures.
Why secrecy is growing
Dr Sophie Shotter, of Allergan Aesthetics, says she sees more patients who prefer not to tell friends, family, or colleagues about treatments. She notes a "noticeable shift" from 10 or 15 years ago when procedures were status symbols. Today, patients say the best compliment is not "Have you had something done?" but "You look well" or "You look refreshed."
Dr Ahmed El Houssieny, also with Allergan Aesthetics, says fewer patients tell loved ones not because they are ashamed, but because treatments have become part of their self-care routine, like getting a facial or going to the gym.
Hidden Botox and fillers
Laura had Botox twice a year for two years before her partner found out when he noticed she couldn't scowl. She kept it quiet due to stigma and her partner's objections, but eventually decided it was about what makes her happy. Her husband was upset about the deception but understood after seeing photos.
Daniel, 42, from Kent, has had £280 worth of Botox twice a year for four years without telling his partner of 19 years. He takes steps to avoid bruising and schedules treatments when his partner is working in London. He believes his partner assumes his youthful look is due to skincare, and he doesn't feel guilty, saying "What he doesn't know, can't hurt."
Breast enhancements and hair transplants
Jessica, 42, from London, had a secret breast enhancement costing £7,000, moving from a B/C cup to a D cup. She told only two people who had the procedure and a neighbour. Her friends discovered at a spa eight months later. She still hasn't told her family or children, and even told her daughter she hurt her back to explain the recovery brace.
Shane, in New York, shaved his head before a hair transplant and paid almost $13,000 to have it done locally rather than in Turkey. He wore a hat for six months before the procedure to avoid suspicion. He hasn't told friends or co-workers, saying he wouldn't share other medical history, so why this? His advice: "Don't tell people if you don't want to; tell people if you do."
