People who choose to have cosmetic procedures may be entitled to paid sick leave, it has been claimed.

According to Malcolm Gregory, a partner at Withy King Solicitors, a growing number of people are requesting sick pay while they recuperate after cosmetic surgery.

While many employers tell workers to use their annual leave entitlement, Mr Gregory claims that employees may have a case to argue as this could be seen as discriminatory.

The solicitor explained: "That's because the law says a workplace rule or policy which disadvantages a larger proportion of women than men may amount to indirect sex discrimination.

"As almost 90 per cent of cosmetic procedures are carried out on women, it could be argued that a decision not to pay sick pay in such circumstances or forcing employees to use their annual leave is indirectly discriminatory."

However, the difference in the number of women and men having cosmetic surgery may not be so apparent for much longer.

According to the Harley Medical Group, there has been a noticeable rise in the number of men undergoing breast reduction surgery after losing a significant amount of weight.