With a new year right around the corner, many are thinking about which plastic surgery procedures will be popular.
According to Denise Mann, editorial director for several plastic surgery information Web sites, consumers may see a lot of deals for injectables such as Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin.
The recent introduction of Xeomin, which is available under the brand name Bocouture and is derived from the same ingredient in Botox and Dysport–botulinum toxin type A–means that plastic surgeons and cosmetic dermatologists have yet another option to offer their patients who want to treat wrinkles.
"Expect to see rebates, price drops, and Groupons galore as companies and surgeons vie for your business," Mann says.
The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) reports that botulinum toxin type A injections were the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in 2010, with more than 2.4 million people undergoing the treatment.
The topical use of Botox may also be another trend for the upcoming year. Studies are underway to determine whether or not the drug is effective for cosmetic use when applied topically. HealthDay reports preliminary studies are positive with the substance effectively reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The FDA will have to give the final OK for the drug to be used topically before it is available to consumers.
Some say that more men may turn to plastic surgery to enhance their appearance in the upcoming year as well.
In 2010, ASAPS reports that more than 750,000 men underwent surgical and nonsurgical procedures, accounting for 8% of the total. However, many doctors say they’ve seen a bigger increase in the number of men seeking their services.
In the past, men have commonly undergone surgical procedures, including liposuction, rhinoplasty, cosmetic eyelid surgery, and facelifts. Botox (sometimes referred to as Bro-tox when it’s done on a man), laser hair removal, and hyaluronic acid injections are popular nonsurgical procedures many men have undergone.
"Men like getting work done," a Florida-based plastic surgeon recently told WTSP-TV News.
Industry experts say that several recent, highly publicized reports of botched plastic surgeries at the hands of inexperienced and unlicensed individuals may also prompt consumers to be vigilant about researching their plastic surgeons in the upcoming year.
"How many more horror stories do we need to hear about plastic surgeries gone wrong before realizing that these procedures should be left to the pros?" Mann asks.
Individuals interested in enhancing their appearance through surgical or nonsurgical cosmetic procedures should contact a licensed, board-certified plastic surgeon to ensure they reach their desired outcome as well as maintain safety.
[Source: The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery]