Cosmetic Procedures and the Modern Workplace

The shift back to in-person work has brought a new etiquette challenge: discussing cosmetic procedures in the office. Many workers underwent surgeries and treatments, such as facelifts and Botox, while working remotely to boost their confidence. Now, as they return to the workplace, these physical changes are visible, prompting questions about how to address them. Some employees, like substitute teacher Jennifer Vaughan, have found that being open about her facelift led to camaraderie among colleagues.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, nearly 1.6 million Americans opted for cosmetic surgery in 2024. The trend is driven partly by the desire for professional advancement, with research suggesting an 'attractiveness premium' in wages. While some industries, such as medicine and public relations, have destigmatized these discussions, others maintain strict privacy. Ultimately, the decision to share or conceal procedures varies, but the desire to align one's appearance with their self-perception remains a strong motivator.

As companies mandate a return-to-office schedule, employees are facing the physical results of procedures obtained during the remote work era. It has become a growing work etiquette conundrum: would you talk about your facelift in the office? While cosmetic procedures became popular during the pandemic, the inability to hide behind a camera-off virtual meeting has changed the dynamic. Workers must now decide if it is worth drawing attention to their changed appearance.

For Jennifer Vaughan, 55, returning to work as a substitute teacher after her facelift was initially awkward. Although she worried that the change wasn't noticeable, she eventually realized her coworkers were simply being polite. She noted that one teacher did a double take and stammered, while others admitted they suspected something but weren't sure. Vaughan has since become an open book about her procedure, documenting it on social media and finding that some coworkers shared their own experiences with liposuction or facial procedures.

Procedures like Botox and fillers have become immensely popular, with injectable procedures growing 4% year-over-year in 2024 to nearly 10 million patients, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. In some workplaces, particularly in fields like public relations, discussing these treatments is a normal part of the day. For Kelsey Sowder, a 33-year-old in public relations, openly discussing Botox with coworkers creates a sense of camaraderie.

"We're like, 'Look at my forehead. It looks amazing,'" Sowder said. She found her first Botox injector through a coworker's recommendation, noting that her predominantly female office treats the topic without shame. The stereotype of the 'frozen face' has been replaced by young influencers and professionals, and the trend has even expanded to include more men. However, not all procedures are treated the same; invasive surgeries often remain private.

While non-invasive treatments are often shared, major surgeries like rhinoplasty (nose jobs) are frequently kept secret. Mia McCormack, 33, chose not to tell coworkers about her rhinoplasty and chin implant over a decade ago. Her manager criticized her decision, believing she should explain her time off. Upon her return, coworkers assumed she had her wisdom teeth removed due to puffiness. McCormack senses that the stigma has changed, but she would still err on the side of privacy.

Dr. Soheila Rostami, an oculofacial plastic surgeon, observes that while engineers and politicians remain quiet, those in the medical field are very open. Jennifer Belen, a 52-year-old medical spa consultant, shared her facelift experience with peers and patients. She felt being authentic helped her professionally, allowing her to use her own results as an example for clients. However, plastic surgery remains financially out of reach for many, with Botox costing around $500 per session.

Many workers view cosmetic procedures as a way to gain a competitive edge. Research indicates that good-looking workers often see a wage boost due to an attractiveness premium. Michael Conigliaro, 55, documented his extensive procedures, including a deep plane facelift and cheek implants. Despite initial nerves, he felt the surgery opened doors at work, strengthening bonds with patients and boosting his confidence.

Sociologist Kjerst Gruys highlights the challenge of distinguishing between elective procedures and conforming to societal standards to advance professionally. For McCormack, sales increased after her procedures, particularly from male customers. For Belen, the surgery helped align her self-perception with the mirror. Ultimately, workers are weighing the costs against the psychological and professional benefits of looking the way they feel.