Interest in Plastic Surgery Grows, Despite the Economic Downturn

For the past 2 years, we plastic surgeons have been asking ourselves, "Where are the cosmetic patients?"

2004-2007 were banner years for plastic surgery, and the first half of 2008 wasn't too shabby either.  Then, the economy tanked in late 2008, and many of us lost about a third of our cosmetic business.

Now, don't cry for me!  Most of my colleagues and I are still doing just fine.  In my practice, I split my time between cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery.  Even if there are fewer tummy tucks and breast enhancements to do, there seem to be (unfortunately) a never-ending supply of skin cancers, facial injuries, breast cancers, burns, etc.  So, I do stay plenty busy.

Yet, I have been wondering whether the cosmetic slow-down is...

1. a by-product of the bad economy
2. representative of a decrease in interest in plastic surgery in general
3. indicative that we plastic surgeons have "fished out the pond" (meaning that we have done most of the cosmetic surgery that needs to be done in the population)

A survey released last week by Harris Interactive and Realself.com seems to suggest that #1 is correct.  The decline in plastic surgery is almost certainly due to the recession rather than a declining interest in cosmetic medicine.

According to the survey of 2,148 adults, consumer interest in cosmetic procedures is actually up in many cases.  More than two-thirds (69%) would choose to have cosmetic work done if money wasn’t an issue, which is 15 points higher than an earlier survey done in November 2009 (in which the figure was 54%).  Interest in plastic surgery amongst consumers is increasing.

Moreover, that 69% want big changes, rather than just minor nips and tucks.  Of those who would get cosmetic work done, almost one in three (29%) would choose a tummy tuck, 23% would want liposuction, and 13% would opt for a facelift.

I really can't wait until the economy finally turns around!  I know that there are ton of interested patients who would really like my help to make some positive changes.