As new technologies continue to develop an interest in cosmetic surgery blossoms throughout the various generations, new patterns in plastic surgery arise. We reached out to other leaders in the plastic surgery industry so we could shed more light on current trends, and asked them, “What’s the most popular procedure at your clinic?”
Non-invasive technologies gain in popularity
One of the main trends in plastic surgery right now is the ever-increasing popularity of non-invasive procedures. With less pain, less downtime, and no scars, it’s easy to understand why this is a trend; here’s what our experts said:
Dr. Gilbert Lee, Changes Plastic Surgery and Spa
“There has been a dramatic rise in non-invasive procedures. In particular, we are seeing great interest in our Scarless Plastic Surgery procedures such as Scarless Facelifts, Scarless Armlifts, and Scarless Tummy Tucks.”
Dr. Lin, Boston Plastic Surgery
“These days in my practice I have seen a lot of repeat coolsculpting patients. Coolsculpting is a great, noninvasive way of reducing areas of skin and fat without going into the operating room, and it is very popular these days. However, in some patients coolsculpted areas still contain fatty tissue; we’re seeing patients decide to have additional liposuction of the area. So as coolsculpting has become more popular across the country, I believe there has also been an increase in liposuction cases as well, a trend that I would not have otherwise predicted! Of course, both can be performed safely, and a qualified physician can advise patients about all of the risks and benefits.”
Youthful looks are in the details
Today’s plastic surgery consumers still want more youthful looks, but they’re looking for subtle, natural-looking modifications. This has led to the surging popularity of procedures that have a high impact despite a slightly less dramatically noticeable difference.
Dr. Fred Fedok, President, American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS)
“The most popular surgical procedure is blepharoplasty, the repair of droopy eyelids, bags under the eyes, and sagging eyebrows that may involve the removal of fat, muscle, skin, or some combination of all three. Both upper and lower blepharoplasty is frequently requested, and because of associated regional issues, they are frequently performed together. The procedure is often coupled with some version of brow lifting or midface lifting.
Blepharoplasty is sometimes requested for functional issues, but most commonly patients opt for this procedure based on the need for aesthetic rejuvenation. People notice their eyes directly when they look in the mirror; they see other people’s eyes while making eye contact during conversations. They are very attuned to the impact the periorbital areas have on facial appearance.”
A new generation
Millennials are joining other age groups in choosing to undergo plastic surgery despite their relatively young age range, in part because their generation embraces technology. Plastic surgery is no longer a shameful secret to be hidden, but the mark of a person independent enough to seek out what they want and get it.
Brian K. Dorner, MD, Dorner Plastic Surgery
“The most popular procedure we do is breast augmentation. Over the last few years, we have seen two distinct changes. The first one is that women are requesting ‘mommy makeovers’ which restore a woman’s pre-pregnancy body through breast augmentation and a tummy tuck. Secondly, we have seen an increase in the number of millennials coming to our practice for breast augmentation.”
Most Popular Cosmetic Surgery Procedures by State
Source: Spamedica.com and Dr. Stephen Mulholland, Plastic Surgeon
The bottom line
These trends in plastic surgery are interesting, to be sure. However, if they reveal any larger truth, it is that there are as many different reasons for choosing plastic surgery as there are people. Different clinics experience differences in demand as their customers make their needs known—and for all of these reasons, this is a very exciting time to be in the industry.
