**Beware of Dangerous Cosmetic Surgery Trends: Plastic Surgeon’s Warning**
Beauty buffs are up to their ears in fillers. A US-based plastic surgeon has warned against a popular cosmetic procedure as more people face the harsh reality of fillers after years of injecting them everywhere from their butts up to their ears.
Ear Filler: The Trendy but Risky Option
Ear filler has become a trendy option for people wanting to make their faces appear smaller or fix drooping earlobes. Dermatologist Dr. Jenny Liu recently revealed that ear filler has become one of the most popular requests from patients in China and South Korea. The procedure involves injecting hyaluronic acid or inserting cartilage behind the ear to achieve the desired plumpness and appearance.
Dr. Liu explained in an Instagram video that besides the lifting effect, filling the ears creates a smaller face, which is a prevalent trend in Asia. Protruding ears are also considered a symbol of good luck in China, further fueling the interest in this aesthetic. Even temporary methods like “elf ear” tape are available in Asian beauty stores to achieve the desired look easily.
Risks and Differences in the Procedure
Not all procedures involving ear fillers are the same. Dr. Deepak Dugar, a Beverly Hills-based surgeon, warned against reshaping the upper ear around the helical rim, a practice not commonly performed in the United States. He cautioned that this risky procedure could lead to conditions like “cauliflower ear,” where the ear becomes misshapen due to complications like blood clots or fluid collection.
Dr. Dugar emphasized that in the US, ear filler procedures are usually focused on the lower earlobe to address aging concerns and prevent wrinkles or sagging. Some patients also opt for fillers to strengthen the earlobe area, as claimed by Brielle Biermann, daughter of Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kim Zolciak.
The Changing Landscape of Aesthetics
As plastic surgeons predict 2025 as the “year of great deflation” and the “De-Kardashian-ification of America,” patients are increasingly moving towards natural aesthetics. This shift entails reversing procedures like Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs), implant removals, and injectable dissolutions to embrace a slender, more authentic appearance, a departure from the once-trendy exaggerated female form.
The evolving trends in cosmetic surgery highlight the importance of understanding the risks associated with popular procedures and making informed choices about aesthetic enhancements. While ear fillers may offer the desired look, it’s crucial to consult with qualified professionals to ensure safety and achieve the desired results without compromising health and well-being.