According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 14.6 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures, including both minimally-invasive and surgical, were performed in the United States in 2012, up to 5 percent higher than in 2011. Some procedures enjoy a higher degree of popularity among women, which is probably due to their impact in enhancing physical appeal. Below are 5 of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the U.S:
- Breast Augmentation: Most women want fuller, curvier breasts which explains the popularity of breast augmentation. Loss in breast volume following weight loss or pregnancy, and genetic deficiencies are some of the factors that induce women to have breast augmentation. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) data for 2011, the rate of breast implant surgeries has grown from 101,176 in 1997 to 316,848 in 2011. Women report increase in self-confidence following breast enhancement surgery.
- Breast Reduction: Larger-sized breasts can be made smaller with breast reduction surgery. Breasts disproportionate to your body may cause back pain or bra strap grooves, in addition to other physical symptoms. Many women go in for breast reduction surgery to reduce breast size and achieve an aesthetically pleasing look.
- Blepharoplasty: Tired looking eyes make you look older. Eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty can improve facial appearance by reducing wrinkles and excess fat from eyelids which causes them to look droopy. Eyelid surgery results in firmer, smoother skin around the eyes and reduces wrinkles, which can take years off your face.
- Facelift: As people get older, facial skin looses its elasticity. Wrinkles develop and facial features start drooping. Fat may build up in the jowls, causing the lower part of the face to sag. Facelifts are popular because they help address all these issues.
- Tummy Tuck: Women with stubborn fat in the mid-section choose to have a tummy tuck as it can give them a firmer, flatter abdomen. Minimally invasive liposuction techniques are used to perform this surgery.
Looking good is a big confidence booster. While advanced technology and innovative minimally invasive techniques have made plastic surgery safe, it is important to seek have your procedure performed by plastic surgeon for an optimal outcome.