Did you know…

We’ve all seen things take a tumble with this down economy, including certain cosmetic surgery procedures. 2008 saw the first decrease in cosmetic surgical procedures since 2004.

Surgical procedures that decreased due to the economy:
Liposuction – down 19%
Tummy Tucks – down 18%
Breast Augmentations – down 12%
Facelifts – down 5%

Minimally invasive procedures that decreased due to the economy:
Microdermabrasion – down 6%
Cellulite Treatments – down 5%
Laser Hair Removal – down 2%

The only reconstructive proceudre to suffer in 2008 was breast reduction, which posted a 16% decrease.

However, it’s also worth noting that several procedures saw increases despite the 2008 economy.

Surgical procedures that posted increases:
Pectoral Implants – up 203%
Dermabrasion – up 13%
Cheek Implants – up 11%
Buttock Lifts – up 8%
Lower Body Lifts – up 8%

Minimally invasive procedures that saw an increase in patients:
Laser Skin Resurfacing – up 15%
Botox – up 8%
Hyaluronic Fillers – up 6%
Laser Treatment of Leg Veins – up 6%
Polylactic Acid Fillers – up 5%

Reconstructive procedures boomed in 2008. Breast reconstruction surgeries were up 39%, while birth defect reconstruction/repairs and hand surgeries were up 16% and 13%, respectively.

**It is important to note that these ASPS procedural stats represent procedures performed by ASPS member surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Inc, as well as other physicians certified by American Board of Medical Specialties-recognized boards.

These stats were reproduced with permission from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.