The Botox Effect Continues

Over the past decade, the current trend toward minimally invasive cosmetic procedures has continued, according to statistics compiled by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). In this survey, the ASPS analyzed trends from 2000 to 2010. While cosmetic surgical procedures decreased by 48%, this decrease was compensated by the 45% increase in minimally invasive procedures. Overall, all cosmetic procedures increased by 9%.

The most impressive statistic was the 258% increase in Botox treatments, many by males. As Botox is one of the most effective, predictable, safe, and minimally invasive of all treatments, this statistic is not surprising. There is perhaps no other minimally invasive treatment available that can make such a profound difference. And now that the public is aware that these treatments produce natural results, men are increasingly seeking treatment. The other impressive statistic was the 141% increase in laser skin resurfacing. This is easily explained by the advent in fractional laser treatments, which have revolutionized laser treatments by making them safer and more useful in darker skin types. I expect this trend to continue, especially with the recent expansion of radiofrequency treatments by companies like Syneron & Candela.

It will be interesting to see what the next decade brings. My guess is that this trend will continue, and possibly even more so, with the emergence of effective non-invasive body sculpting treatments such as CoolSculpting. There is no question that cosmetic surgery is not going away any time soon, but there is no denying that the public is increasingly seeking safer and more effective non-invasive treatments every year.