Should surgery really be led by fashion?

We’ve already made comment upon the predicted aesthetic surgery trends of 2017, but there’s always something new and unexpected that can come out of nowhere, and this is the latest trend: Venus dimples.

Prosaically known as ‘lower back dimples’ and in the trade as ‘V-spots’, they’re the indentations located on the lower back area, usually found on the bodies of female athletes and ultra-toned models, and are becoming highly coveted amongst the fashion community. They’re also being touted as the bikini-body must-have for this summer, and – just to put the icing on the cake – they’re allegedly seen as indicators of good health and a very satisfying sex life, as they promote good circulation around the pelvic area.

What does the V-spot procedure involve?  

The V-spot procedure is a simple liposuction process, utilising VASER liposuction technology. A cannula is inserted in the treated area, through a small incision, and then heat and energy is deployed to break down fat in the lower back. This is then removed with the assistance of a suction cannula, which creates the dimples. The entire procedure takes an hour or so, and the dimples – and the much sought-after diamond shape – will start to become visible after four weeks and fully develop after a few months.

The actual procedure is relatively painless, although there will be a few aches in the first few days after surgery (which can be dispelled with moderate use of painkillers), the recovery time takes ten days, and you will be advised to wear a compression garment to avoid swelling for six weeks.

Is it worth it?

The idea of a cosmetic procedure as fashion item has really caught on this decade, for many reasons: the vastly improved safety record and accessibility of aesthetic surgery, the vanishing of the stigma surrounding cosmetic procedures, and the willingness of celebrities and taste-makers to be open about what they’ve had done, to name but a few.

But it’s worth pointing out that there are many reasons as to why people consider aesthetic surgery, and ‘because it’s trendy’ is very low on that list – particularly when the procedure involves improving a part of the body you can’t see.

Undergoing a surgical procedure brings on more than a physical change – it can have implications on our mental well-being too. Most of the time, it’s a positive effect: a successful procedure can and does give a client a huge boost to their confidence every time they step in front of a mirror.

But the professional and diligent surgeon knows only too well that every procedure is different, and should be tailored to the client, their lifestyle, their current body shape, the body shape they desire – and the realistic possibilities that are available.

We’re not in the business of telling people what they should desire in their own body shape, but we can’t stress it enough: whatever procedure you’re thinking of having, it makes sense to book a full consultation with a qualified and experienced surgeon before you do anything else.