The saying goes, if you notice that someone’s had work done, then the surgeon didn’t do a good job. Unfortunately, more often than not, one can usually tell when someone has, in fact, had work done (especially if you spend a lot of time in DIFC).
One recent phenomenon that has swept the internet has been the increased awareness of celebrity ‘pillow face’, especially among male actors. Not sure what that is? Watch the clip below where aesthetic surgeon, Dr. Devine, explains.
But what about in the UAE? Are local men equally infatuated with ‘pillow face’, or do they have other aesthetic goals in mind?
Dr. Fadi Hamadani, a plastic and aesthetic surgeon at InMode in Dubai, had this to say about the following questions:
Apparently, calf implants are some of the most popular forms of aesthetic surgery in Dubai. What are your thoughts on this surgery, and is that even true?
In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in the demand for calf implants among men in Dubai, primarily driven by a strong focus on achieving a balanced, athletic physique. While many men in the region dedicate significant time to upper-body workouts, the lower body is often neglected, leading to disproportionate aesthetics. Calf implants have become a popular solution for creating a more symmetrical look. This trend has gained momentum over the past few years as more men seek ways to refine and enhance muscle definition beyond what they can achieve naturally at the gym.
What are some muscle implant surgeries that are gaining popularity ?
Alongside calf implants, we’ve observed increasing interest in pectoral implants and gluteal augmentation, as individuals pursue a more sculpted, muscular appearance. These procedures cater to men looking to accentuate their chest and back areas, especially when natural muscle growth has plateaued despite rigorous workouts.
Are there other plastic surgery trends that have spiked over the last few years, and what trends do you foresee in the future?
In addition to muscle implants, procedures like liposuction and body contouring have seen significant growth, especially with the rise of innovative technologies. For instance, BodyTite Turbo, which uses radiofrequency-assisted liposuction, has become a go-to for those seeking effective fat reduction and skin tightening without invasive surgery. It’s popular due to the faster recovery time and more natural-looking results.
Looking forward, we expect non-invasive treatments to continue dominating the market, with a particular focus on skin tightening and body contouring technologies. QuantumRF is one such device that is set to redefine non-invasive body contouring by offering precision skin tightening and deep tissue remodeling. It’s an excellent alternative to traditional surgical methods, targeting both superficial and deep layers to provide a comprehensive approach to skin rejuvenation and contouring.
Matteo Balamhawal, founder of Hyalure (a hyaluronic acid treatment now available in Dubai), had this to say:
What have been the most popular male aesthetic treatments of the last year in the UAE?
Dermal fillers and skin rejuvenation therapies. People appreciate the immediate results these treatments provide and their convenience as their is minimal downtime. Combination treatments have also been very popular, where clients opt for a mix of injectables, such as dermal filler or skin boosters, paired with skin resurfacing treatments like micro-needling or chemical peels. This allows them to address multiple concerns—such as fine lines, texture, and volume loss—in one session.
Do you have any concerns about treatments that could become popular?
One of my main concerns is the use of non-dissolvable ingredients. It’s crucial for patients to have the option to reverse a procedure if they’re not satisfied. Treatments with dissolvable components, such as hyaluronic acid and CMC, offer more flexibility and peace of mind, allowing the results to be adjusted if needed. I strongly recommend patients thoroughly research the products being used before undergoing any aesthetic treatment, no matter how minor.
What aesthetic treatments do you see being popular in 2025, and why?
A growing interest in advanced anti-aging treatments like exosome-based therapies and CMC (Collagen Matrix Complex) treatments. These are appealing because they deliver natural-looking results with minimal recovery time, which resonates with the current shift towards subtle enhancements.
CMC (Carboxymethyl Cellulose) treatments are all about strengthening and supporting the skin’s structure. Collagen naturally declines as we age, causing skin to lose its firmness and elasticity. The mechanism of action for Erelle filler (or CMC filler to keep it vague) is simple yet highly effective. Once injected into the skin with fine needles, the filler spreads evenly in the treated area. Carboxymethylcellulose acts as a three-dimensional matrix that stimulates the production of collagen, an essential protein for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. This process not only fills wrinkles and restores lost volume, but also improves the overall quality of the skin, making it firmer and smoother.
Calves, according tot the internet fitness community, are notoriously hard to train, and if you’re someone who struggles with beefing up the lower part of your leg, just know that you’re not alone. And in case you needed any extra moral support, just know that Johnny Drama is on your side.
