Technical approaches to plastic surgery are not universal. Both men and women undergo surgical procedures, and it is important to consider anatomical differences when determining surgical techniques..
A skilled plastic surgeon recognizes gender-based differences in skin,muscle, and fat, and develops a treatment plan suited to each individual’s needs. Our team is here to help you understand these anatomic differences between men’s and women’s plastic surgeries so you can approach it feeling informed and prepared.
Gender Variations in Skin
Men and women have natural variances in their skin and muscle mass that may influence the techniques used in plastic surgery. Men’s skin is generally about 20 percent thicker than women’s, largely due to higher levels of collagen and testosterone. This contributes to a firmer appearance and may make men’s skin more resistant to aging, which typically occurs at a constant, slow rate. Additionally, hair-bearing facial skin has a more robust blood supply due to the presence of hair follicles. As a result, a direct male neck lift is a viable option for men who may not want a full face/neck lift. Female skin thins more dramatically after menopause, leading to more pronounced signs of aging, such as volume loss, wrinkles, and fine lines.
Men also tend to have more active sebaceous glands than women, which results in more oily skin and larger pores. Women are more prone to dryness, particularly as estrogen levels decrease during menopause. They also have more subcutaneous fat, which can give the skin a softer appearance.
Gender Variations in Muscle
Muscle differences between genders are primarily due to hormonal variations, muscle fiber composition, and overall body composition, resulting in distinct patterns in muscle growth and strength. While each body is different, these typical gendered differences in musculature, in addition to skin variations, help guide plastic surgeons.
For example, higher testosterone levels in men facilitate protein synthesis, promoting muscle development. Women have higher levels of estrogen, which can hinder muscle growth and make it more difficult to avoid fat deposits. Men tend to have about 40 percent more muscle mass than women, especially in the face, neck, chest, and abdomen. Women tend to have finer, less bulky muscles, giving them softer contours.
Plastic Surgery Techniques May Differ by Gender
The techniques Dr. Steele uses for your plastic surgery will depend on your unique goals, but sexual anatomic differences will impact surgical planning. A woman’s thinner skin is a key consideration for surgeries in the face and neck, as skin tends to be more delicate in these areas. A procedure for women will also address finer signs of aging. Male facial plastic surgery will typically be designed to address loose neck and jowl skin. Dr. Steele will also consider gender-based differences when placing incisions: for men, he will minimize scars due to less hair available for camouflage, and for women, he will place scars to avoid hairline distortion.
Men and women tend to have different aesthetic goals that influence their plastic surgery choices. Men typically seek sharper features, such as defined jawlines, stronger noses, flatter abdomens, and more visible muscle definition. Liposuction in men often targets the abdomen, flanks, and chest to enhance muscle definition. Women typically desire softer facial features, such as lifted cheekbones, fuller lips, and enhanced body contours.
Dr. Steele creates a surgical plan for women that focuses on highlighting feminine contours in the waistline, hips, and thighs. He will modify his techniques to ensure beautiful results that align with each patient’s unique goals.
Men and Women Can Both Contact Us for a Plastic Surgery Consultation
It is important to consider anatomic differences between men and women to ensure results that complement each gender’s unique features. Dr. Steele has years of experience customizing surgical plans to meet each patient’s specific needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.