The truth about cosmetic surgery scars

SA is in the top 25 countries for surgical cosmetic procedures

- By Mbalenhle Zuma [e-mail]

Over the past five years, South Africa has seen a steady increase in cosmetic procedures.

As South Africans step into January with renewed intentions for self-improvement, cosmetic surgery has become an increasingly accepted part of the country's wellness landscape.

Alongside gym memberships and healthier eating habits, more people are turning to surgical and nonsurgical aesthetic procedures as a way to feel aligned with their goals for the year ahead.

Social media mirrors this shift. Timelines are filled with dramatic before-and-after images showcasing sculpted bodies, snatched waistlines and youthful faces. But behind these polished transformations lie a reality that is only now receiving attention: the swelling, bruising, emotional uncertainty and, most notably, the long and often misunderstood journey of scar healing.