Predicting Plastic Surgery Trends for 2012
Each year plastic surgery societies like the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS) and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) review procedure data and statistics from the past year to make estimations about the upcoming year. After reading a recent blog from ASAPS, the surgeons of Atlanta Plastic Surgery wanted to share some plastic surgery predictions for 2012. Unlike last year’s predictions that focused on body contouring and liposuction procedures, predictions for 2012 include mostly facial plastic surgery procedures, especially those that are non-invasive.
One of their predictions has been in the news for months now: the rise in the number of men seeking plastic surgery. Although more men are seeking plastic surgery, they still only account for 8% of the total plastic surgery procedures performed. Men have started to realize the role their looks play in the business world. In fact, many men choose to undergo facelift, brow lift, or blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) to look younger and less haggard in order to maintain or gain a job in this troubled economy. Younger men whose signs of aging don’t require a surgical procedure may go for Botox®, facial fillers, and even laser hair removal to enhance their appearance and give them an edge. However, looking younger is not the only goal of men seeking plastic surgery pursue as many undergo liposuction and tummy tuck procedures to enhance their body’s contour.
ASAPS also suggests more people will likely opt for minimally invasive procedures like cosmetic injectables and facial fillers in 2012, especially with the introduction of Xeomin, a new cosmetic injectable derived by botulinum toxin A. Topical Botox was also mentioned as a possible trend this year as researchers continue to study the effectiveness of a topical application. Although we do not yet offer Xeomin or topical Botox at Atlanta Plastic Surgery, we do have new, non-invasive technology for our Atlanta patients in 2012. Similar to the reason patients choose injectables and fillers, patients can now opt for skin resurfacing with eMatrix™ and Ulthera® non-surgical facelift at Atlanta Plastic Surgery for a more youthful appearance.
The last prediction ASAPS made is one we hope will ring true in 2012: more patients conducting plastic surgery research. It is vital that patients find licensed, plastic surgeons. Beware of deals that seem too good to be true and always, always do your research before undergoing plastic surgery.
Although we will have to wait until next year to determine whether or not the predictions ring true, we hope to see less plastic surgery horror stories in the news as more patients do their research. Until then, keep reading our blog to stay posted on cosmetic and reconstructive surgery news and trends.
