As the recession continues, plastic surgery is taking a back seat to minimally invasive procedures, which are less expensive and just as effective.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), plastic surgeries declined by nine percent last year while Botox and fillers had a five percent growth. 

These minimally invasive procedures appeal more because they cost less and they require less time away from work. The latter is especially relevant in today’s economy, where no job is safe.

And doctors have noticed this emerging trend.

“Patients who might have opted for a more dramatic result with surgery are happy to take a lesser result but a nice improvement from one of the non-surgical techniques,” said Dr. Charles Hughes, a plastic surgeon with the Indianapolis Institute for Plastic Surgery.

A face lift can cost anywhere from $6,000 to $9,000, compared to Botox which costs about $400 per injection.
Botox and fillers top the list of non-surgical procedures that patients want.

Last year, there were five million Botox procedures performed, marking an eight percent growth compared to 2007. There were 1.1 million hyaluronic acid filler procedures performed, a six percent increase compared to 2007. These are all based on statistics from ASPS.

“With Botox and fillers, we can simulate a lot of what you get surgically for less. The downside is it’s temporary,” asserted Dr. Mark Hamilton from the Hamilton Facial Plastic Surgery.

With the recent approval of Dysport—an anti-wrinkle drug that will compete against Botox, the minimally invasive cosmetic treatment industry will strengthen its presence in the market. Dysport’s arrival will expand consumer options and give Botox much-needed competition.

Source: IndyStar.com