Plastic Surgery Rates Soar Among Katrina Survivors

January 19, 2007
Past and present New Orleans residents who survived the devastation of Hurricane Katrina are now flocking to plastic surgeons throughout the region seeking rejuvenation and renewal.

Some plastic surgeons are attributing this boom to an increase in disposable income among Katrina survivors who've taken storm deductions on their federal taxes, invested in government loans, or let go damaged property.

Others say that post-Katrina plastic surgery patients are seeking an affordable way to feel better after such devastation. Survivors may have limited control over their bleak landscape but working on their personal appearance may provide a way to exercise some control.

More specifically, many patients see cosmetic surgery as a way to make a new start in life. Out with the old and in with the new, as the saying goes. Survivors want to put the trauma of the storm behind them and start fresh.

One woman said she started getting Botox injections after Katrina to feel brighter amid the ruin.

“There is so much devastation. Everything around you looks so bad. With so much negativity, this is a little bit of a positive,” said Vita Elmer.

For Elmer, Botox provides a “temporary pick-me-up.” Others are choosing more permanent results with procedures like eye lifts, liposuction, breast enhancement and more.

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