Minimally-Invasive Procedures on the Rise

April 26, 2006
A report released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) shows a significant increase in the number of minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures performed in recent years. Last year alone, over eight million people underwent such procedures - a 13 percent increase from the previous year and a 53 percent increase since 2000.

The increase in minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures has led to a decline in the number of people electing to undergo more invasive procedures. Over the past five years, total surgical procedures dropped by five percent. Facelifts and forehead lifts, two of the more common cosmetic procedures, showed a drastic decline of 19 and 54 percent respectively.

During this same period, minimally-invasive procedures soared. “For facial rejuvenation especially, we have seen a shift from surgical treatments to a more subtle approach,” commented ASPS President Bruce Cunningham, MD.

Botox injections saw a 388 percent increase while laser skin resurfacing procedures increased 59 percent. The statistics also demonstrate a significant trend toward hyaluronic acid (Restylane, Hylaform), polylactic acid (Sculptra), and calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) fillers and a decrease in the number of collagen and fat injections.

These numbers may be attributed to the fact that invasive cosmetic procedures tend to be more time consuming than minimally-invasive procedures. Time becomes an increasingly important factor with regard to cosmetic procedures as more and more Americans try to strike a balance between the demands of family and career.

If you have questions about any of these or other minimally-invasive procedures, consult with a board certified plastic surgeon .

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