Just over 13 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures were performed in 2010 in the United States, according to statistical data released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). The new stats showed a 5 percent increase in cosmetic procedures from 2009.
ASPS links the increase in cosmetic procedures to the rise in consumer confidence. “The financial markets are at a two year high, we’re seeing a double digit increase in the percentage of auto sales over a year ago, and as the aging population continues to grow, people are investing in plastic surgery procedures to help stay competitive in the workplace,â? said Phillip Haeck, MD, ASPS President.
Cosmetic Surgical Procedures
Cosmetic surgical procedures increased 2 percent last year. Two procedures that saw significant increases were face lifts (up 9 percent, after not experiencing growth since 2007) and body contouring procedures, with a large number of those coming after massive weight loss.
The top five surgical procedures were as follows:
- Breast augmentation
- Nose reshaping
- Eyelid surgery
- Liposuction
- Tummy tuck
“There’s some pent up demand for cosmetic surgical procedures. People have waited a couple of years or more to have procedures, until their finances were at least somewhat back in order. But, all indications are, more consumers are again willing to spend more to look better,” Dr. Haeck said of the increases.
Non-surgical Procedures
Non-surgical cosmetic procedures increased 5 percent in 2010, with the top five procedures as follows:
- Botulinum toxin type A
- Soft tissue fillers
- Chemical peel
- Laser hair removal
- Microdermabrasion
“Injectables have remained robust despite the economy,” said Dr. Haeck. “Botox® and Dysport® injections are up 12 percent, while, interestingly, fat injections are up 14 percent, which could reflect how a patient’s own fat is being used in more creative ways to rejuvenate the face and body.”
For more information, view the 2010 Report from ASPS with statistics on both cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery procedures.
Dr. Jonov is a cosmetic surgeon who specializes in plastic surgeries of the face, breast, and body at Seattle Plastic Surgery.
