Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Emerging Trends in Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery has emerged as an attractive option for people from all walks of life. The baby boomer generation contributes greatly to this recent acceptance, as they have been exposed to the idea of cosmetic surgery for decades. Medical advancement is making it more and more accessible.

The fact is that we are living longer, more active lives. Regardless of age or income, feeling confident about looks is important. The emphasis on appearance reaches everywhere, from the dating arena to the workplace.

Cosmetic Surgical Advancement

Medical advancement allows for much safer cosmetic surgical procedures, with faster recovery. There are also a growing number of minimally invasive and non-invasive treatments available. Many minimally invasive treatments can be performed in an outpatient facility, rather than the traditional hospital setting. Not only more convenient, outpatient facilities can also lower the cost of cosmetic surgery.

Of the many forms of minimally invasive and non-invasive cosmetic treatments are injectables and fillers, Botox and hyaluronic acid to name a few. Each treatment works differently and is meant for specific areas of the body. For example, Botox fills out wrinkles on the forehead, while hyaluronic acid is best for areas around the nose.

Laser cosmetic surgery is emerging as a popular treatment, as well. Lasers skin resurfacing can be used to diminish scars, wrinkles and sun damage. Laser hair removal may also be the answer to permanent riddance of unwanted hair.

Cosmetic Surgery as a Mainstream Attraction

The emphasis on safer, option-laden cosmetic procedures is attracting people from all walks of life. In the past, cosmetic surgery reached a white female elite demographic. The field is now experiencing a growing interest among minorities, men and patients from various age and economic backgrounds. Stigma from the past is now outdated.

Comprehensive Cosmetic Procedures

Another new trend in cosmetic surgery involves combination treatments. What with a developed understanding of the human body, cosmetic surgery practices are not only safer and more convenient, but can also be comprehensive. Gone are the days of lengthy surgical procedures and recovery periods.

Granted, the field of cosmetic surgery still practices practicality. But it’s very common to combine many minimally invasive procedures. For example, a patient may elect to have Botox injections, hyaluronic fillers and laser hair removal in one setting.

Other cosmetic surgical procedures that can typically be combined include face and neck lifts. Liposuction can also be performed with a tummy tuck or breast augmentation. In fact, liposuction can safely be merged with most cosmetic surgical procedure to enhance results.

The Treatment Plan

Many cosmetic surgeons are enlisting treatment plans for their patients to help the patient prioritize what they would like to change about appearance. Treatment plans can incorporate timeframes ranging from a few months to several years. The emerging trend of treatment plans in cosmetic surgery opens the doors of communication between doctor and patient.

The Cost of Cosmetic Surgery

A variety of options for cosmetic surgery is met by a variety of cost options. The cost of cosmetic procedures, such as laser hair removal, ranges from a few hundred dollars, into the thousands. You may qualify for a low interest loan from a health care financing company, bank or credit union.


By Keion Moradi