Cosmetic medical procedures continue to grow in popularity

Advancements in cosmetic medicine in recent years have led to an increased number of patients seeking minimally invasive surgical procedures and non-invasive treatments to help rejuvenate their looks and bolster self-confidence. These innovations in the field have created a more positive overall experience with improved patient outcomes and drastically reduced recovery time.

It’s also caused a shift in public perception as the stigma surrounding cosmetic surgery has faded significantly. As procedures become more advanced and more affordable, they’ve become more appealing to any number of both women and men.

In a report released in late September, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) examined national trends in cosmetic surgical procedures between 2019 and 2022, and numbers show that procedures rose by 19% over the three-year period. Liposuction, tummy tucks, and arm and lower body lifts were most popular, accounting for more than 576,000 procedures in 2022 alone.

“This year’s study supports the larger trend of the public’s growing desire to look and feel better in their own skin,” ASPS President Gregory Greco, DO, FACS said in a statement released on the report’s findings.

With cosmetic procedures gaining in popularity, it remains paramount for patients to do the proper research in finding the right provider with the proper credentials and track record for success. Check out the rest of this page for some more tips and advice on the matter.

Ask the Experts

We spoke with some area professionals to find out how breakthroughs in technology are changing patient care for the better.

What are some of the more exciting trends in the field right now?

“There are so many technologies for nonsurgical rejuvenation coming to the market. It will be interesting to see which ones truly work and are worthwhile to pursue. We currently offer radiofrequency treatments [EvolveX and Morpheus8] for skin tightening and rejuvenation.”

Jeffrey M. Feiner, MD, FACS, Feiner Plastic Surgery

What can you tell us about the TempSure skin-tightening treatment and how it helps new mothers heal without medication or surgery?

“The heat in the technology goes deep into the skin and helps to regenerate collagen. Treatments can help with women who have had a cesarean section and left with a scar. Additionally, it helps with lower abdominal swelling and fat deposits in the abdominal area and even for those women postpartum who may be experiencing painful intercourse.”

Kaleen Richards, founder, Tree of Life Birth & Gynecology

Top 5 Cosmetic Surgical Procedures

1. Liposuction
2. Breast Augmentation
3. Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
4. Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
5. Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

*2002 Procedural Statistics Release, American Society of Plastic Surgeons

Choosing the Right Surgeon

10 key questions to help in finding the right provider

• Are you board certified?
• Do they have hospital privileges to perform your procedure?
• Am I a good candidate for aesthetic plastic surgery?
• What procedure (or combination of procedures) do you recommend based on my desired outcome?
• What are the benefits and risks associated with those procedures?
• How many of these procedures have you performed?
• Will you be making any incisions? If so, how many and where?
• Are the results I am seeking realistic?
• What kind of recovery period will I need?
• What are my options if the outcome of my procedure does not meet the goals we agreed on?

*American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery