India’s cosmetic surgery market is poised to experience exponential growth, with projections indicating it will reach $11.5 billion (approximately Rs 1 trillion) by 2030. This growth is driven by several factors, including the influence of celebrities, rising disposable incomes, reduced stigma surrounding cosmetic procedures, and increasing access to advanced medical equipment, according to a report from Grand View Research. The cosmetic surgery sector is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.6%, fueled by the import of FDA-approved products from international markets.
A key driver of this surge is the growing preference for subtle, natural-looking results among consumers. Many patients are opting for non-surgical facelifts and other minimally invasive treatments that preserve a youthful appearance without drastic changes. Mumbai-based Kaya Clinic has observed that many individuals prefer to keep their treatments discreet and low-profile, which aligns with the shift towards less invasive procedures.
Priya Puja, a dermatologist and head medical advisor at Kaya Clinic, noted that social media and celebrity culture have played a significant role in normalizing cosmetic procedures. “People aspire to look like celebrities or influencers and are more open to cosmetic treatments. There is less stigma attached to these treatments now,” Puja said.
Lahari Surapaneni, CEO and consultant plastic surgeon at Bangalore Hospitals, also emphasized the impact of celebrity influence, noting that social media exposure has driven interest in cosmetic surgery, with both public figures and everyday individuals striving to look their best.
The equipment used in aesthetic surgeries in India is often sourced from internationally renowned markets such as the U.S., Europe, and South Korea, ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality. Kaya Clinic, for example, uses FDA-approved equipment such as FLX and products from U.S. and European manufacturers. These advanced tools, however, come at a steep price, with some equipment costing up to several lakhs. Surapaneni explained that imported equipment can cost anywhere from Rs 80 lakh to Rs 1 crore, depending on the quality and precision of the tools.
While cosmetic surgery is gaining popularity, it’s not just about vanity. Younger generations, particularly those in their early 30s, are increasingly opting for preventive treatments like hydration fillers or platelet-rich plasma to maintain healthy skin. As people age, they turn to more targeted treatments, such as ultrasound-based procedures like Thermage or thread lifts.
At Apollo Hospitals in Navi Mumbai, the patient base for cosmetic and plastic surgeries spans various age groups. Women aged 25-45 often opt for facelifts, Botox, and non-surgical treatments, while an increasing number of men are seeking rhinoplasty and hair transplants. The hospital also reports a significant number of trauma patients who require reconstructive surgeries following accidents.
Kaya Clinic sees around 100 consultations per month, with many patients seeking non-invasive procedures such as energy-based devices or thread lifts, depending on their medical history. Bangalore Hospitals also performs a significant number of procedures, averaging 70-75 face, thread, and cosmetic surgeries monthly.
As cosmetic surgery continues to rise in popularity, the potential for this market in India remains immense. However, experts emphasize the importance of thorough assessments before undergoing any procedure. Factors like medical history, allergies, and thyroid conditions are considered to ensure safe outcomes.
Although non-surgical procedures generally have a lower risk of side effects, improper application or unsuitable treatments can lead to complications, such as bruising from injectables or temporary redness from laser treatments. Nonetheless, the growing demand and increasing accessibility of cosmetic surgery in India signal a bright future for the sector.
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