Breast reductions and implant removals have overtaken enlargements for the first time, according to data from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). The annual audit reveals a significant shift in cosmetic surgery trends, with experts attributing the change to more active lifestyles and a preference for natural silhouettes.
Breast Reduction and Implant Removal Trends
In 2025, BAAPS recorded 4,761 breast enlargement procedures, an 8% decline from the previous year. In contrast, there were 4,673 breast reduction procedures and 847 implant removals. This marks the first time that reductions and removals have collectively surpassed augmentations.
Surgeons suggest that the growing popularity of form-fitting athleisure clothing and an increased focus on comfort during physical activities are driving this trend. Nora Nugent, BAAPS president, stated: 'For the first time, we are seeing the number of patients undergoing breast reduction and implant removal surpass those opting for augmentation. This reflects a broader shift away from exaggerated curves towards a more natural silhouette, one that better complements active lifestyles and the continued rise of athleisure fashion.'
Rise in Facial Procedures
Facial surgeries are also on the rise, with brow lifts increasing by 27% overall. Facelifts and eyelid surgeries have seen similar growth. Additionally, labiaplasty procedures increased by 6%, which Nugent links to discomfort during exercise and concerns about visibility in tight gym wear.
Dr. Anil Joshi, a consultant ENT and facial plastic surgeon, observed: 'Patients are becoming more selective. They are less interested in it looking like they’ve had obvious work done.' He noted that breast enlargement has not disappeared, but motivations have changed: 'Women typically talk now more about lifestyle than cup size. Implant removals are rising for the same reason. Most women are not reversing a mistake. They are reflecting a new stage of life.'
Overall Procedure Numbers
Women accounted for 93.9% of all cosmetic procedures in 2025, with 25,217 operations performed, a 2% decrease from 2024. Total cosmetic procedures numbered 26,840, also down 2% year-on-year.
Men's Procedure Preferences Shift
For men, facial surgery now dominates. Eyelid surgery became the most popular procedure for men, with 346 procedures (up 8%), overtaking rhinoplasty, which saw 273 procedures (down 18%).
