Awareness of Facial Changes During December
In an intriguing survey conducted by IC Clinic, an esteemed medical institution in Shibuya, Tokyo, it has come to light that a notable percentage of individuals are increasingly concerned about their facial appearance during the festive month of December. With the rise of telecommuting and the social interactions that come with year-end festivities, finding oneself in video calls and photographs has amplified the focus on facial features rather than overall body weight.
Survey Overview
The survey involved 300 working individuals aged between 20 and 50 from various regions across Japan. Conducted online from November 18 to November 25, 2025, the results reveal striking insights related to December's festive atmosphere.
The Rise of Facial Concerns
77% of respondents acknowledged feeling that their face appears rounder in December, signaling notable changes in facial contours. When asked about this phenomenon, 34.7% indicated that they frequently experience changes, while 42.3% admitted they occasionally notice these alterations.
Key Findings:
- - Common Occurrence: 34.7% report frequent changes.
- - Occasional Recognition: 42.3% experience changes from time to time.
- - Minimal Impact: Only 15.7% said it happens rarely, and 7.3% said not at all.
Causes of Facial Changes
The primary reason individuals attributed to facial fullness was
swelling, identified by 68.4% of respondents, followed closely by
overeating or drinking (62.7%) during year-end parties, and
lack of sleep (48.3%) attributed to the busy holiday season.
Other Contributing Factors:
- - Inactivity: 41.6% cited insufficient physical activity.
- - Poor Posture: Related to smartphone usage (37.2%).
- - Aging Effects: 33.8% noted aging-related sagging.
- - Stress: 28.4% felt stress also played a role.
Moments of Realization
Individuals recognized that they are most aware of facial fullness in certain scenarios. A surprising 71.8% admitted to noticing it after seeing themselves in photographs, while 58.3% acknowledge recognizing it during video conference calls. Also, 52.4% realized it upon viewing themselves in mirrors.
Recognition Moments:
- - Photographs: 71.8%
- - Web Conferences: 58.3%
- - Mirrors: 52.4%
- - Comments from Friends: 34.7%
- - Inconsistency with Clothing Size: 29.6%
Motivation for Facial Care
As the year comes to an end, many express a heightened interest in improving their facial appearance. 72.3% of respondents indicated that they felt an increased desire to care for their facial contours, motivated by social gatherings and greetings during the holidays.
Care Motivation Levels:
- - Greatly Increased: 28.6%
- - Somewhat Increased: 43.7%
- - No Significant Change: 21.4%
- - No Change at All: 6.3%
Preferred Care Methods
When asked about preferred methods for facial refinement, self-care practices, including facial massages, were favored by 64.2% of respondents. Intriguingly, nearly half (47.8%) expressed interest in medical aesthetic treatments like HIFU and Botox for a more definitive improvement.
Interest in Care Options:
- - Self-Care (Massage): 64.2%
- - Medical Aesthetics: 47.8%
- - Facial Devices: 42.3%
- - Salon Treatments: 38.6%
- - Facial Yoga/Training: 31.4%
- - Diet or Detox: 26.8%
Summary of Results
The survey sheds light on the increased concern about
facial fullness in December. It is compelling that the majority associated this with seasonal habits like
swelling and
overeating. The emphasis on recognizing these changes through photographs and virtual meetings underscores our evolving perception of self-image.
Expert Insights
Dr. Takashi Takakawa from IC Clinic commented, "The insights reveal that December indeed brings awareness of facial changes attributed mostly to swelling. However, we also must consider age-related factors that contribute to the blurred facial line, such as skin sagging and fat position changes. As we grow older, facial structures are easily affected, especially post-30s. For those finding self-care inadequate, professional medical solutions can offer impactful results. Our clinic specializes in tailor-made treatments for our patients’ concerns."
In conclusion, with the festive season fast approaching, IC Clinic encourages anyone worried about facial fullness to consult a specialist and find the right treatment approach.
Reach Out for a Consultation
If you have concerns about your facial outline or feel that self-care has its limits, consider booking a free consultation at IC Clinic. Our team of specialists in plastic surgery is ready to discuss the best treatment plans catered to your individual needs.