If we look back at our experiences and exposure to cosmetic surgery in the 1990s and even the 2000s, we think of celebrities like Joan Rivers, Tara Reid and Leslie Ash, who was dubbed “trout pout” by the media.

We have come a long way since then. Cosmetic surgery is more widely accepted in society and the quality of treatments has largely increased. Procedures are much more subtle, and more than that – they are much more natural looking. You only need to pick up a copy of Heat magazine to find at least one instance of a “has she/hasn’t she had surgery?” article playing the guessing game about any given celebrity.

A survey by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPs) shows that cosmetic surgery in the UK is on the rise. Breast augmentations are the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure for women in the UK, followed by blepharoplasty (eyelids) and then face or neck lifts. The number of men having cosmetic treatments is also on the rise, with the top treatment listed as tummy tucks.

Harley Street is well known for its cosmetic surgeries and many have long waiting lists. So it’s clear that we’re more accepting of cosmetic procedures and surgeries no longer have a dirty name. We expect not only clean, trusted, certified establishments but also the staff to be knowledgeable, friendly and well-presented. SimonJersey.com, specialists in beauty salon uniforms and tunics say “In this industry appearances really count and beautician uniforms tunics say a lot about you and your salon.” Other things to take into account include training, qualifications and aftercare.

The recent victory of Leah Totton in this year’s series of The Apprentice has shown that the cosmetic surgery industry is a competitive but growing market. Her plan is to open a chain of beauty clinics offering anti-ageing skin treatments including chemical peels and dermal fillers. Treatments like this are becoming more and more accepted and sought after – LoveLite clinic in Harley Street recently revealed that they have seen a 250 per cent increase in women over 60 seeking cosmetic treatments. The clinical director says “The over 60s age group is without a doubt the fastest growing area in the non-invasive cosmetic treatment market at the moment. Almost all of the women that come to us have just become separated or divorced, and they are wanting to improve their appearance and get back to their more youthful figure.” There has also been a huge increase of 160 per cent in treatments for men of the same age.

For more information on cosmetic procedures visit the NHS website. You can also check the Treatments You Can Trust (TYCT) register, which is backed by the Department of Health, to see if a clinic is appropriately qualified.