Latest Surgery Stats Shows Millennials Want Breast Aug & Rhino

What’s Driving Millennials to Breast Augmentation and Rhinoplasty?

In this blog…

What’s Driving Millennials to Breast Augmentation and Rhinoplasty?
An Overview of the Millennial Demographic
What Drives Millennials toward Cosmetic Surgery?
Why Breast Augmentation Tops the List
Why Rhinoplasty Remains a Millennial Favourite
The Changing Landscape of Cosmetic Surgery for Millennials
FAQs about Breast Augmentation and Rhinoplasty in Australia
Further Reading about Breast Augmentation, Rhinoplasty and Plastic Surgery Trends
References for Breast Augmentation and Rhinoplasty for Millennials

If you’ve noticed more people in their 20s and early 30s opting for cosmetic procedures, you’re not alone. Millennials—those born between 1981 and 1996—are leading the way in aesthetic surgery, with breast augmentation and rhinoplasty topping the list of most popular procedures.

According to the 2023 ISAPS Global Survey (source), 53.7% of all breast augmentations and 65.8% of rhinoplasties were performed on patients aged 18 to 34. This means that more than half of all breast augmentations and nearly two-thirds of nose reshaping surgeries are done for millennials.

So, why are these two procedures so appealing to this age group? Let’s explore the motivations behind these choices, the latest trends, and what you should consider if you’re thinking about either of these surgeries.

An Overview of the Millennial Demographic

Millennials are often described as a generation that values self-expression, individualism, and self-improvement. You’ve grown up in a digital world where social media, filters, and high-definition selfies have made aesthetics more noticeable than ever.

Unlike previous generations, millennials don’t necessarily see cosmetic surgery as something only for the wealthy or older adults. Instead, it’s viewed as a form of self-care, similar to skincare, gym workouts, and nutrition.

With an emphasis on natural-looking enhancements, millennials are more interested in getting small alterations of their appearance rather than making drastic changes. This explains the shift in trends towards subtler breast augmentation choices and balanced rhinoplasty results.

What Drives Millennials toward Cosmetic Surgery?

It’s no secret that social media plays a huge role in how you see yourself. Whether it’s Instagram, TikTok, or professional Zoom calls, your appearance is constantly on display.

With the selfie generation, you might be more aware of your facial features and body proportions than ever before. This increased visibility can lead to small aesthetic concerns feeling more pronounced—especially when front-facing cameras can distort your nose and face shape.

Surgeons have noticed a trend where patients bring in filtered photos or FaceTuned images to consultations, seeking alterations that align with how they look on social media. While responsible surgeons will always focus on realistic results, the influence of social media on aesthetic trends cannot be denied.

The Influence of Celebrities and Online Beauty Standards

From influencers openly sharing their cosmetic procedures to celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Bella Hadid normalising aesthetic treatments, there’s a widespread acceptance of cosmetic surgery among millennials.

Rather than opting for dramatic changes, today’s trends lean towards less visible alterations that maintain unique facial and body characteristics. The ultra-glamorous looks of the past seem to be long gone now.

The Rise of Preventative and Early Intervention Procedures

Millennials are proactive about ageing and aesthetics, often seeking procedures earlier to prevent more invasive surgeries later. You may have heard of “prejuvenation“—the idea of altering your appearance before major ageing changes occur.

For example:

Some people choose rhinoplasty in their 20s for facial harmony rather than waiting until later in life.
Breast augmentation can be sought after post-weight loss or after childbirth, to restore volume rather than dramatically increase size.

Why Breast Augmentation Tops the List

Breast augmentation remains one of the most commonly requested cosmetic procedures among millennials, particularly in Australia, where increasing numbers of younger individuals are seeking the procedure. If you’re considering breast augmentation, it’s important to understand the current trends, lifestyle considerations, and advancements in surgical techniques that make this procedure so appealing today.

Aesthetic Preferences: Balance Over Size

If you’re thinking about breast augmentation, you may have noticed that the era of exaggerated, oversized implants has passed. Unlike previous decades, when a fuller, more noticeable look was often desired, the current trend leans toward proportionate, natural-looking results that complement the body’s natural shape.

Many people seeking breast augmentation today focus on achieving harmony with their overall physique, rather than significantly increasing their bust size. Common preferences include:

✔ A moderate increase in size that changes the shape without looking unnatural.
✔ Teardrop-shaped (anatomical) implants, which mimic the natural slope of the breast.
✔ Fat transfer breast augmentation, which uses your own body fat for a subtle increase.

Additionally, breast shape and proportion have become more important than just cup size. While some individuals may still prefer round implants for added fullness, others opt for a more subtle projection that maintains a natural appearance.

Body Changes and Lifestyle Factors

Your lifestyle choices, body changes, and long-term goals play a major role in determining whether breast augmentation is the right choice for you.

Some millennials who undergo breast augmentation are motivated by:

A desire to restore lost volume after weight loss – If you’ve shed a significant amount of weight, you may have noticed changes in your breast shape, with some volume loss that makes your chest appear flatter than before. Augmentation can help restore volume while maintaining a balanced physique.
Post-pregnancy breast changes – Many women experience a loss of volume and skin elasticity after pregnancy and breastfeeding. A breast augmentation, sometimes combined with a lift, can help restore a fuller look while keeping results proportionate to your body.
An active, fitness-oriented lifestyle – If you’re highly active or into weight training, you may prefer a smaller, more athletic breast shape that complements your physique without interfering with your workout routine.

These factors contribute to the rising demand for smaller, more natural implants or fat transfer techniques, which allow for alterations without looking overly artificial.

Advances in Breast Augmentation Techniques

Surgical advancements have made breast augmentation safer, more customisable, and less invasive than ever before.

✔ Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation – This technique uses your own fat cells (harvested from areas such as the abdomen or thighs) to increase breast volume naturally. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a small increase in size without implants and a more organic feel.

Why Rhinoplasty Remains a Millennial Favourite

While breast augmentation is a sought-after body procedure, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping surgery) remains the most popular facial cosmetic surgery among millennials. Given that the nose is one of the most defining features of the face, even a small change can have a significant impact on overall facial balance and symmetry.

Facial Symmetry and the Desire for a Balanced Look

Rhinoplasty isn’t always about making the nose smaller—for many millennials, it’s about achieving facial harmony rather than dramatic changes.

Today’s rhinoplasty trends focus on:

✔ Smoothing out nasal bumps or humps to create a more streamlined profile.
✔ Refining the nasal tip to add definition and create a softer, more balanced shape.
✔ Maintaining a natural look that complements your existing facial features.

The goal is not perfection but change. Many millennials seek small, natural-looking changes that fit their facial proportions rather than drastic transformations.

Surgeons today use 3D imaging technology to help you visualise your potential results, allowing you to see how minor modifications can change overall symmetry.

Functional Benefits

One of the key reasons rhinoplasty remains so popular is that it often serves both aesthetic and functional purposes.

If you’ve ever struggled with:

A deviated septum, which can cause breathing difficulties,
Chronic nasal congestion or sinus problems,
A history of nasal injuries,

then rhinoplasty might not just change the way you look—it could improve your ability to breathe comfortably.

Functional rhinoplasty procedures (sometimes referred to as septoplasty or reconstructive rhinoplasty) can address both cosmetic and medical concerns at the same time, making it a highly practical choice.

This combination of medical necessity and aesthetic alteration is one of the reasons so many millennials choose to have this procedure in their 20s or early 30s.

The Popularity of Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty

If you’re considering rhinoplasty but aren’t ready for surgery, a non-surgical option might be an alternative to explore first.

✔ Non-surgical rhinoplasty (liquid nose job) involves injecting volumising agents to temporarily refine the shape of your nose.
✔ This can smooth out small bumps, lift the nasal tip, or improve symmetry without the need for surgery.
✔ It’s a popular choice among millennials who want to see what a rhinoplasty might look like before committing to permanent changes.

Although the results are temporary (lasting 6 to 18 months), some patients use this as a stepping stone to assess their options before deciding on a permanent procedure.

The Changing Landscape of Cosmetic Surgery for Millennials

With the increasing popularity of cosmetic procedures, there has also been a growing awareness of the importance of choosing a qualified plastic surgeon. Millennials, as a digitally savvy generation, are more likely to research their options extensively before committing to a procedure. A high level of research is crucial, as it helps patients avoid the risks associated with unqualified practitioners who may offer procedures at significantly lower costs but without the necessary expertise or safety measures. Consulting with multiple specialists before making a decision is another important step, as it allows patients to compare approaches, surgical techniques, and overall rapport with the doctor.

Beyond technical expertise, ethical plastic surgery also means making responsible choices about why and when to undergo a procedure. While cosmetic alterations can sound like a good idea, it’s important to ensure that the decision comes from a personal desire rather than external pressures from social media, trends, or peer influence.

FAQs about Breast Augmentation and Rhinoplasty in Australia

How do I choose a qualified plastic surgeon in Australia?

Choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important steps in ensuring a safe procedure and satisfying results. In Australia, it’s essential to look for a specialist plastic surgeon who is registered with the Medical Board of Australia and accredited by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). This distinction is important because not all doctors offering cosmetic procedures are specialist plastic surgeons. It’s also a good idea to review before-and-after photos and book a consultation with multiple surgeons before making a final decision. During the consultation, ask about their experience with breast augmentation or rhinoplasty, the techniques they use, and their approach to ensuring natural-looking results.

What are the costs of breast augmentation and rhinoplasty in Australia?

The cost of breast augmentation and rhinoplasty varies depending on several factors, including the surgeon’s expertise, hospital fees, anaesthesia, and the complexity of the procedure. On average:

Breast augmentation in Australia can range from $10,000 to $15,000 for a straightforward implant-based procedure. If a breast lift is required as well, costs may be higher.
Rhinoplasty typically costs between $10,000 and $20,000, depending on whether it’s a cosmetic reshaping or involves functional corrections (such as improving breathing).

It’s important to note that in Australia, Medicare and private health insurance do not cover cosmetic procedures unless they are medically necessary. If your rhinoplasty is required for functional breathing issues, some rebates may apply, but purely aesthetic procedures will be out-of-pocket expenses.

How long is the recovery process for breast augmentation and rhinoplasty?

Recovery time varies from person to person, but generally:

Breast augmentation patients can expect a few weeks of discomfort, with most people returning to light activities within two to three weeks. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least six months.
Rhinoplasty has a longer recovery period, with swelling and bruising most noticeable in the first two weeks. While most patients return to work within 10 to 14 days, it can take several months for residual swelling to completely subside and the final shape of the nose to be fully visible.

How long do breast implants last, and will I need a revision?

Breast implants are not lifetime devices, but they do not necessarily have an expiration date either. Modern implants are designed to be long-lasting and durable, with many lasting 10 to 20 years or longer without issues. However, some women may choose to have a revision or replacement due to personal preference, changes in breast shape over time, or rare complications such as capsular contracture or implant rupture. Regular breast checks and follow-ups with your surgeon are recommended to monitor your implants over time. If you experience changes in breast shape, discomfort, or concerns about implant integrity, consult your plastic surgeon for an evaluation.

Will a rhinoplasty change my breathing?

A well-performed rhinoplasty should not negatively impact your breathing, and in many cases, it can actually improve it. If you have a deviated septum, narrow nasal passages, or other structural issues that cause breathing difficulties, a functional rhinoplasty or septoplasty can be combined with the cosmetic procedure to enhance both aesthetics and airflow. It’s crucial to choose a surgeon with experience in both cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty to ensure that your results look natural without compromising nasal function. Some swelling inside the nose is common during recovery, which may cause temporary congestion, but this typically resolves within a few weeks as healing progresses.