Sometimes, it feels like the 1960s are far away; and yes, it is obvious that most casual procedures and tools were completely different when compared to those we are used to these days. The sphere of aesthetic medicine has also changed for good.
This was the decade when civilization started to create beauty in previously unimaginable ways with a new form of perfection that could be attained via choice rather than luck. The 1960s were an important period that laid the foundation for what is now considered modern beauty. Let us see what is unique about that time and why it is important to know.
Symbols of the 1960s: A Decade of Transformation
The 1960s were about revolution, social movements, cultural upheavals, and a burst of new ideals. In addition to shifts in politics, fashion, and music, this decade also changed the way people saw the world and themselves, too. It was about new beauty icons and standards in this sphere.
We cannot but mention cultural icons of the time, whose appearances and ways of living became symbols a new era. These are British model Twiggy who personified the mod fashion craze and introduced a new kind of feminine beauty, gorgeous Marilyn Monroe who was a literal ideal of attractiveness, Brigitte Bardot with her liberated style, Jackie Kennedy like an image of grace and sophistication, and more.
Additionally, at this time, there appeared numismatic symbols, which, if not directly related to aesthetics, reflected ideas of identity and beauty. Coins from the 1960s usually commemorated events of transformation and represented a period of profound cultural and political change. Here, we are proud to mention renowned Kennedy Half Dollars, Civil Rights Commemorative Coins, and the like. Today, these concepts are also brought to light again (e.g., 2020 quarters worth money).
“To be ideal” was their motto in every aspect of their lives. Now, let us turn to the physical beauty of a human. How could it be changed?
The Early Stages of Aesthetic Medicine
We all know that everything is possible with modern aesthetic medicine. In the 1960s, the situation was a bit alternate. The pursuit of beauty was the next horizon to reach for what had previously been restricted to reconstructive purposes. The first step was elective plastic surgery; although procedures such as facelifts and rhinoplasties had existed for a while, they were now more widely available and seen as tools for self-improvement.
The 1960s witnessed cultural changes that increased demand for aesthetic operations. There were introduced idealized beauty standards that got into every home by the media, Hollywood, and the emergence of television. Do you wish to look younger? Would you like to feel more confident? Fit in a society – that was the target.
Major Innovations of the Decade
Silicone Breast Implants
Developed by Drs. Thomas Cronin and Frank Gerow, silicone breast implants were one of the most important developments in aesthetic medicine. They provided a safer, more natural-looking alternative for breast augmentation. Originally designed to assist breast cancer survivors, they swiftly gained popularity; and these days, we cannot imagine the world without this option.
Advances in Facelift Techniques
Throughout the 1960s, facelifts evolved from simple skin-tightening techniques to more intricate operations. In order to produce longer-lasting and more natural effects, surgeons started concentrating on deeper tissue layers. Hence, facelifts have become less stigmatized and are now a popular option for anyone who wants to improve their looks.
Dermabrasion
In the 1960s, dermabrasion became popular as a treatment for wrinkles, acne scars, and other skin imperfections. The process exposed smoother, more youthful skin beneath the damaged outer layers of skin. It provided patients with a non-invasive way to improve their appearance and was an early iteration of contemporary laser treatments.
Chemical Peels for Skin Rejuvenation
In order to treat wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and age spots, cosmetologists opted for chemical peels. In order to exfoliate and remove damaged skin layers, they used regulated chemical solutions, which produced noticeable effects with comparatively little recovery time.
Early Development of Injectable Fillers
Although it was still in its early stages, the idea of injectable fillers started to spread all over the world. Even though these early experiments were primitive in comparison to contemporary fillers, they signaled the start of a discipline that would transform aesthetic procedures that did not include surgery for good.
Ultrasonic Liposuction
Ultrasonic fat removal technology was introduced in the late 1960s. Despite being experimental at the time, it laid the foundation for modern liposuction methods, which predicted the rise in popularity of body sculpting and contouring techniques to occur in the upcoming years.
Ethics Go First
The aesthetic medicine was, is, and will be popular forever. Nevertheless, patient safety, informed consent, and the impact of cultural beauty standards are also subject to discussion. The hazards of operations often were not completely understood by patients, and safety was occasionally compromised by conflicting regulations, too.
The aesthetic medicine was, is, and will be popular forever. Nevertheless, patient safety, informed consent, and the impact of cultural beauty standards are also subject to discussion. The hazards of operations often were not completely understood by patients, and safety was occasionally compromised by conflicting regulations.
Practitioners were meant to navigate the moral limits of promoting cosmetic enhancements while managing the desire for elective treatments versus reconstructive demands.
Even though innovation propels advancement, ethics must always take the lead, and these principles should serve as a crucial reminder in the end.