Americans increase use of cosmetic surgery, procedures

• Americans continue to turn to facial plastic surgery to enhance appearance and smooth the lines of time according to a recent study released by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS).
• The annual study, which reports the latest trends in facial plastic surgery gathered from board certified AAFPRS members, shows that overall the most sought after procedures from 2003 to 2004 were filler injections, up 115 percent, and Botox, up 107 percent.
• The survey reveals that non-surgical procedures are a major priority for many patients who are looking to refresh their complexions or maintain their youthful appearance.
• "This year's AAFPRS survey clearly illustrates that many patients are opting for less invasive procedures, but also shows that more and more men and women are also undergoing surgeries like rhinoplasty and face/neck liposuction," said Dr. Steven Pearlman, president of the AAFPRS.
• When it comes to why patients elect facial cosmetic surgery, AAFPRS surgeons report that men and women consistently cite the same reasons for their decision.
• Nearly equal in popularity are couples that chose to refresh their appearance together at 35 percent.
• Medical spas also continue to rise in popularity with 14 percent of surgeons saying they perform non-invasive procedures in this setting.
• The most common surgical procedures for females were eyelid surgery, nose surgery and facelifts, while non-surgical procedures included Botox, filler injections, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels.
• Botox for women showed a 92 percent increase from last year.
• Not surprising, the majority of surgeons say that patients are not requesting specific celebrity features when they come in for cosmetic surgery, but rather view themselves as individuals and do not identify with celebrities.