Beauty standards and cosmetic procedures from 1900 to today

Standards of beauty and the popularity of cosmetic procedures have changed significantly over the years.
The following is an overview of beauty standards and cosmetic procedures, specifically eyelid surgery, influenced by cultural, social and technological developments from 1900 to the present.

1900-1920

Women in this period were encouraged to have a natural, modest appearance.
Makeup was used sparingly, often in secret or discreet forms, such as colored balms and powders.
Pale skin was considered ideal, which was a sign of wealth and status because it indicated that one did not have to work outside.
There was little talk of surgical procedures.
In the early 20th century, eyelid surgery was still quite rare and experimental.
The few procedures that were performed were mostly reconstructive in nature, often intended to correct deformities caused by injuries or congenital defects.
Cosmetic eyelid surgery was not yet widespread.
Surgery at that time was limited by available technology and medical knowledge.
Procedures were performed under local anesthesia and were often risky with a significant risk of complications.

1920-1940

The “flapper” look became popular in the 1920s, with short hairstyles, dark eye makeup and a slim, boyish figure.
In the 1930s, a more glamorous look was appreciated, with an emphasis on curly hair and fuller figures.
The first modern cosmetic procedures began to emerge, such as facelifts.
However, they were still quite experimental and risky.

1940-1960

In the 1940s and 1950s, full curves and an hourglass figure, as represented by actresses such as Marilyn Monroe, were seen as the ultimate beauty ideal.
The emphasis was on a feminine and voluptuous body.
After World War II, there was an increased focus on plastic surgery, due in part to the need for reconstructive procedures for wounded soldiers.
This led to improved techniques and a growing interest in cosmetic surgery, including eyelid surgery.
Techniques began to improve with more focus on aesthetics.
Surgeons removed excess skin and fat to create a more youthful appearance.
More attention was paid to symmetry and natural results.

1960-1980

In the 1960s, standards changed dramatically with the rise of the slim, almost androgynous look, epitomized by models such as Twiggy.
The 1970s brought a more natural and bohemian look.
Surgery became more accessible and less risky, leading to an increase in popularity.
The 1960s and 1970s also saw an increase in the popularity of eyelid surgery, especially in Hollywood, where a youthful appearance was important for actors.
Techniques became increasingly sophisticated.
Surgeons used more precise methods to remove or reposition skin and fat.
The focus was on maintaining a natural look and preventing a “too tight” look.

1980-2000

The 1980s was the era of extravagance and excess, with a focus on a muscular, athletic body for both men and women.
The 1990s promoted a supermodel ideal, with a slim but healthy body.
By the 1980s and 1990s, eyelid surgery was one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures worldwide.
The procedure became increasingly popular among both men and women.
Surgeons began using lasers for some aspects of the procedure, which allowed for less blood loss and a shorter recovery.
Techniques were developed to make scars more subtle, often hidden in the natural folds of the eyelids.
In addition to eyelid surgery, liposuction, breast implants and rhinoplasty also became particularly popular.
In the 1990s, Botox began to emerge as a nonsurgical alternative to facelifts.

2000-2020

The 2000s introduced a variety of beauty ideals, from the “size zero” trend to greater acceptance of different body types.
However, social media also reinforced unrealistic beauty standards, with a strong emphasis on symmetrical faces and a youthful appearance.
Minimal and non-invasive procedures such as fillers, Botox and laser treatments became hugely popular.
In the late 2010s, the popularity of Brazilian butt elevator (BBL) increased.
There was also an increase in the diversity of procedures available, allowing for personalized customization.
The popularity of eyelid surgery continued to rise, thanks in part to the aging population interested in rejuvenation procedures.
Standardization of the procedure continued, but there was also a trend toward customization to meet individual needs.
New techniques were developed such as transconjunctival blepharoplasty, in which fat is removed through an incision in the eyelid without visible scarring on the outside.
Techniques also became popular to add volume rather than simply remove it to maintain a youthful appearance.
Minimally invasive techniques and technologies such as radiofrequency and laser treatment became more common for eyelid surgery.

2020-present

Today, there is a wider acceptance of various ideals of beauty, including a focus on natural beauty and body positivity.
At the same time, the influence of social media remains strong, leading to conflicting expectations about beauty.
The trend is toward subtle enhancements and personalized aesthetics, with a growing demand for procedures that allow for quick recovery.
Hybrid procedures that are non-invasive are gaining popularity, as is the use of technology in procedures, such as skin enhancement via lasers and ultrasound.
In the current decade, eyelid surgery is still very popular, with a growing demand for natural results and quick recovery.
Also, eyelid surgery is becoming increasingly popular among younger people.
The choice for this is often for aesthetic reasons, such as obtaining a tighter, more defined eye look.
This can include removing excess skin or pockets of fat under the eyes.
In addition, the pressure to always look good has been reinforced by social media.
The constant use of filters and comparing oneself to edited images can contribute to the desire to undergo cosmetic surgery.
Eyelid surgery can also be seen as a preventative measure against future aging.
Furthermore, cultural influences can play into the choice of eyelid surgery.
The procedure is often combined with other rejuvenation procedures such as brow elevators or fillers for a more complete approach to aging.
The specialized Drs.
Dulaimi stands out for his unique approach to eyelid surgery with the “lifting technique.
This technique gives the eyes a youthful but not over-corrected look with an emphasis on maintaining a natural appearance.
Special suturing methods are used to increase precision.
The personalized approach, which involves an analysis of each person’s anatomy per se, leads to results that are well suited to the person’s individual characteristics.

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Published on 2 September 2024