Cosmetic Procedures: A Stylist's Guide to Choices, Confidence and Care
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The Rise of Cosmetic Surgical Procedures
The Truth About Liposuction and Body Contouring
Understanding the Process of a Tummy Tuck
From Confidence to Comfort: The Benefits of Breast Reduction
Exploring Dermal Fillers and the Top 5 Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures
A Snapshot in Global and Local Cosmetic Procedure Trends
What You Should Know About Botox Side Effects
Addressing Cosmetic Procedures to Treat Dark Circles and Hollow Eyes
Final Thoughts on Confidence, Choice and Cosmetic Procedures
Stephanie Rumble, fashion stylist and host of the Style for Life podcast, explores a topic many are curious about but hesitant to discuss openly: cosmetic procedures. In this episode, Stephanie offers her non-judgemental perspective on both cosmetic surgical procedures and non-surgical enhancements, sharing insights drawn from her own experience and the experiences of clients over the years. This article dives deep into the top themes from the episode, including motivations, outcomes, recovery, and the importance of making informed, confident decisions.
The Rise of Cosmetic Surgical Procedures
More people are considering cosmetic surgical procedures to enhance their appearance, boost self-esteem, and address long-standing insecurities. These choices are deeply personal and should be approached with compassion and understanding. Stephanie emphasises that any decision to undergo cosmetic enhancements should be made for yourself, not based on societal expectations or comparisons.
"I want people to feel confident in who they are — whether they've had something done or not." ~ Stephanie Rumble
Popular procedures in cosmetic surgery include:
Liposuction to remove unwanted fat deposits
Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) to reshape the abdomen
Breast reduction to alleviate discomfort and improve posture
Breast augmentation for those wishing to increase breast size or restore volume
Procedures following weight loss surgery, especially for excess skin removal
These procedures often accompany personal transformation journeys, such as after childbirth or major weight loss. Recovery time and cost vary significantly, so it’s important to consult qualified professionals and understand the potential risks and outcomes.
If you’re currently navigating changes in your body or appearance and want personalised advice on how to feel confident in your wardrobe again, Stephanie’s personal styling services may provide the perfect complement to your transformation journey.
The Truth About Liposuction and Body Contouring
Liposuction remains one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures, aimed at removing fat cells from targeted areas to improve body shape. It's particularly popular among individuals who have difficulty shifting stubborn fat despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Common liposuction treatment areas include:
Abdomen and waist
Thighs and hips
Chin and neck
Upper arms
"It’s not about perfection. It’s about how you feel when you look in the mirror." ~ Stephanie Rumble
Although it provides visible improvements, liposuction should not be mistaken for a weight loss solution. Instead, it's best suited for those who are already close to their desired weight. Stephanie highlights that maintaining the results requires consistent lifestyle habits, including good nutrition and regular activity. Post-procedure care such as compression garments and rest are also essential for recovery.
Understanding the Process of a Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens weakened abdominal muscles. It's especially beneficial for those who have undergone major weight loss or pregnancy and are left with loose skin.
Key benefits include:
A flatter, more toned midsection
Improved abdominal support and posture
Reduction of stretch marks below the belly button
Stephanie notes that clients often choose this procedure as part of a larger transformation process. Recovery involves rest, compression garments, and gradual return to activity. As with all procedures, individual goals and expectations should be carefully discussed with a qualified professional.
From Confidence to Comfort: The Benefits of Breast Reduction
For many women, breast reduction offers not just aesthetic change but life-changing physical relief. Stephanie explains that this is one of the most impactful surgeries her clients have undertaken.
"If you’ve made a change to feel better in your own skin, then you deserve to feel proud of that." ~ Stephanie Rumble
Common reasons for seeking breast reduction include:
Chronic neck, shoulder, or back pain
Difficulty finding well-fitting clothing or supportive bras
Unwanted attention or feelings of self-consciousness
Clients often report increased comfort, better posture, and greater ease during exercise post-surgery. Stephanie highlights that this decision is often rooted in a desire for freedom, not vanity. She recommends speaking with medical professionals and fully understanding the implications before moving forward.
Exploring Dermal Fillers and the Top 5 Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures
For those seeking subtle changes without undergoing surgery, non-surgical cosmetic procedures for the face offer popular and accessible alternatives. Stephanie shares her own experiences with dermal fillers and Botox, discussing how these treatments can create natural, refreshed appearances.
"You don’t need to justify why you had a procedure — that’s between you and your confidence." ~ Stephanie Rumble
Here are the top 5 non-surgical cosmetic procedures covered:
Dermal fillers for restoring volume in the cheeks, lips, and under-eye area
Botox for reducing fine lines and dynamic wrinkles
Chemical peels to improve skin tone and texture
Cosmetic laser procedures for resurfacing and pigmentation issues
Skin tightening using radiofrequency or ultrasound
Stephanie points out that these treatments are generally quick, minimally invasive, and involve little downtime. She encourages anyone considering these options to do their research, choose experienced practitioners, and have realistic expectations. These procedures are not about transformation but enhancement.
A Snapshot in Global and Local Cosmetic Procedure Trends
As public interest in cosmetic enhancements continues to grow, recent statistics reveal a dramatic increase in both surgical and non-surgical procedures across the globe—and in New Zealand specifically. This data highlights the rising normalisation of aesthetic interventions, as well as a growing awareness around safety, diversity, and access.
Aesthetic procedures neared 38 million worldwide in 2024, with surgical and non-surgical procedures up 40% since 2020. Eyelid surgery ranked as the most popular, increasing by 13.4% year-on-year (ISAPS Global Survey 2024)
Facelifts surged by 7.4% in one year, with 737,028 performed globally in 2024—a 75.9% increase compared to 2020 (Aesthetic Medical Practitioner Report)
Women now comprise 27.2% of all doctors performing surgery in New Zealand, up from 9.4% in 2005, indicating stronger gender diversity in surgical roles (Medical Council of New Zealand Workforce Survey 2024)
A total of 1,048 claims for cosmetic surgery treatment injuries were made to ACC, with 620 involving procedures performed in New Zealand, illustrating local demand and risk awareness (AJOPS Cosmetic Surgery Injuries Report)
These numbers reflect how cosmetic procedures are increasingly mainstream and diverse, and underscore the importance of making safe, educated choices with qualified professionals.
What You Should Know About Botox Side Effects
While Botox is among the most popular cosmetic procedures, it's essential to understand the potential risks. It works by temporarily relaxing facial muscles to smooth wrinkles, particularly around the forehead and eyes.
Some of the most commonly reported botox side effects include:
Mild headaches
Swelling or bruising at injection sites
Drooping eyelids or asymmetry (usually temporary)
Muscle stiffness or flu-like symptoms
Stephanie stresses the importance of seeking treatment from licensed, medically trained professionals. She also advises a conservative approach, favouring subtle results over frozen expressions. When applied thoughtfully, Botox can enhance your look without compromising your personality or natural movement.
Addressing Cosmetic Procedures to Treat Dark Circles and Hollow Eyes
Dark circles and hollow under-eyes can make us look tired or aged, regardless of how we feel. Stephanie notes that many people explore cosmetic procedures to treat dark circles, especially dermal fillers, to correct volume loss beneath the eyes.
"When we take care of ourselves, the ripple effect is felt in every part of life." ~ Stephanie Rumble
This area requires precise application and expert skill, so selecting the right practitioner is vital. While results can be significant, they are temporary and require maintenance.
Additional options include:
Enhancing your skincare routine with eye-specific treatments
Prioritising sleep and hydration
Considering natural skincare alternatives before exploring injectables
Stephanie reminds listeners that dark circles can also be genetic or caused by stress and allergies. A holistic approach often leads to better long-term results, regardless of whether you opt for a procedure.
Final Thoughts on Confidence, Choice and Cosmetic Procedures
Throughout this episode, Stephanie Rumble delivers a consistent message: every individual deserves to feel confident in their appearance. Whether you're considering cosmetic procedures, surgical options like liposuction or breast augmentation, or more subtle approaches such as dermal fillers or skin tightening, your decision should be guided by your own values.
Key takeaways from Stephanie:
Confidence should come from within and be supported by your choices
You don’t owe anyone an explanation for enhancing your appearance
Careful research and consultation are critical to achieving safe and satisfying results
These procedures are tools for confidence, not shortcuts. They work best when combined with a holistic lifestyle that includes a healthy skincare routine, good nutrition, and self-acceptance. The goal isn’t perfection: it’s alignment with how you feel inside.
Adjacent topics such as cosmetic dental procedures also play a role in how individuals present themselves and feel in daily life, and may form part of a wider transformation. For those who are interested in aligning physical changes with lifestyle transformation,
Stephanie’s accountability coaching services offer a unique bridge between personal wellness and external change. Her program supports mindset shifts around food, health and self-image—without dieting.
Stephanie also delivers educational workshops on style and wellbeing designed to suit businesses of all types. These may be valuable if you’re in a workplace leadership role or want to encourage professionalism and self-confidence in your team.
If investing in yourself helps you show up with more confidence—whether in relationships, social settings, or your career—then that investment may be worthwhile. Just remember: you are already valuable, with or without enhancements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common cosmetic procedures discussed in the podcast?
The podcast touches on several common cosmetic procedures, both surgical and non-surgical. These include liposuction, tummy tucks, breast reduction, Botox, and dermal fillers. Stephanie Rumble shares her perspective on how these treatments are approached by her clients and how they can help support confidence and self-image.
Is liposuction a weight loss solution or a contouring tool?
Liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss. It’s designed to contour the body by removing stubborn fat pockets that don't respond to diet and exercise. Stephanie points out that maintaining results post-liposuction requires ongoing healthy habits, including nutrition, movement, and rest.
What does a tummy tuck involve and who is it for?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, involves removing excess skin and tightening abdominal muscles. It’s particularly helpful for those who’ve experienced pregnancy or significant weight loss. Stephanie notes that it’s often chosen as part of a broader personal transformation and is best approached with clear expectations.
Are Botox and dermal fillers safe?
When administered by trained professionals, Botox and dermal fillers are generally considered safe. However, like any cosmetic treatment, they carry risks. Stephanie recommends choosing reputable providers and starting with a conservative approach for subtle, natural-looking results.
Can cosmetic procedures help reduce dark circles under the eyes?
Yes, procedures like dermal fillers can be used to treat volume loss beneath the eyes, which contributes to dark circles. Stephanie notes that it’s a common area of concern among clients, but results depend heavily on the provider’s skill and the individual's skin condition.
What are the side effects of Botox?
Common side effects of Botox include temporary bruising, headaches, or mild swelling at the injection site. Rarely, drooping eyelids or asymmetry may occur. Stephanie encourages listeners to view Botox as a fine-tuning tool rather than a transformation.
How do non-surgical cosmetic procedures compare to surgical ones?
Non-surgical procedures like Botox, fillers, and skin tightening typically involve less downtime and cost. Surgical procedures are more invasive but often provide longer-lasting results. The choice depends on your goals, lifestyle, and how quickly you want to see changes.
Why do people get breast reductions?
Breast reductions are often sought for medical and comfort reasons—such as back pain, shoulder strain, or difficulty exercising. Stephanie highlights how this procedure can improve posture, confidence, and overall quality of life.
What should I consider before getting a cosmetic procedure?
It's important to do your research, know your motivations, and understand recovery time and risks. Stephanie encourages consulting qualified professionals and thinking carefully about how the change aligns with how you want to feel in your body.
Can cosmetic changes impact personal style and confidence?
Absolutely. Cosmetic changes often reflect an internal shift in confidence, and aligning that with your wardrobe can make a powerful difference. Stephanie's personal styling services are designed to support clients in expressing their best selves after undergoing physical changes.
