Beauty isn't PAIN

Self-improvement comes in many forms. When it comes to aesthetic 'tweakments', here's what you need to know about facial enhancements

- CHARNDRÉ EMMA KIPPIE

These days, it seems like getting a little nip or tuck is about as normal as sipping a chai latte on a chilly winter's day. Plastic surgery is no longer a taboo. According to the most recent survey by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), which polls plastic surgeons worldwide - including in South Africa there has been a 9% rise in both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures since last year.

One of South Africa's few female plastic surgeons, Dr Nerina Wilkinson, notes that we have more realistic' expectations when it comes to cosmetic surgery than citizens of the UK and USA, as South Africans don't make celebrity makeover-type' demands.

"Most of the patients I see are people who just want to be the better version of themself. They don't want to look different; they just want to slightly enhance the features they have," says Wilkinson.

HOLD THAT KNIFE

Before going under the knife, there are non-surgical options to explore that can help you achieve the youthful results you want. And why not? Botox and fillers can smooth out those unwanted fine lines in less time and at a lower cost.

Let's be real, we all know that needles equal pain, but with these treatments it's more like a quick pinch. The results won't be permanent (unlike surgery and that impulsive tattoo you got on holiday), but you will get a big boost of confidence.

ALL HAIL HYALURONIC ACID