Hispanics lead minority racial and ethnic groups in the number of procedures at 8.5-percent followed by African- Americans, 6.2 percent; Asians, 4.6 percent; and other non-Caucasians, 1.1 percent.
Ethnicity has prevented some people from seeking plastic surgery for years, many fearing their features would look "too white". However, Julius Few, MD, FACS, assistant professor at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine says, "Many are realizing that plastic surgery can be done without feeling like you're trying to change your ethnicity. For example, scarring is an area of concern among darker-skinned patients; we now have new techniques to help minimize unwanted outcomes."
Expertise in treating skin of color involves more than knowing how a certain laser or injectable might affect a Hispanic or Brazilian patient. A doctor's cultural sensitivity can also improve a patient's outlook. Renato Saltz, MD, of Salt Lake City says, "For example, South American women typically want smaller breasts and larger buttocks than the average white American female."
Dr. Saltz adds, "Being aware of cultural differences is more than just speaking the language. It's also about understanding how patients want to enhance their natural ethnic beauty."
