Approximately 17.5 million cosmetic procedures were performed in 2017, according to the latest report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Even more interesting: minimally invasive procedures accounted for 15.7 million of the total procedures.
San Antonio facial plastic surgeon Dr. Jose Barrera reveals the top five procedures in this blog post.
1. Botulinum Toxin
There were 7.23 million botulinum toxin type A procedures performed in 2017, making it the top cosmetic procedure in the U.S. Botulinum toxin is popular for a number of reasons. First, it offers a quick and easy fix for wrinkles and lines on the face and neck. The injectable product temporarily relaxes the facial muscles, which in turn causes the overlying wrinkles to smoothen out. Treatment can be completed in less than 30 minutes and results can be seen a few days after treatment. Results last three to four months and can be maintained easily with repeat treatments. Botulinum toxin is often used on its own but many patients choose to combine the injectable treatment with other facial rejuvenation procedures to produce more effective results. In addition to treating wrinkles and lines, Botox can be used to treat facial nerve paralysis, Bell’s therapy and migraines.
Three of the most popular Botulinum toxin type A products are Botox, Dysport and Xeomin. Although they all work the same way to minimize wrinkles and lines, each comes with unique specifications. Both Botox and Xeomin produce effects that are visible within a week of injection, while results with Dysport usually become noticeable one to two days after treatment. Dysport injections tend to be the least expensive of the three injectables, but it’s important to note that one unit of Dysport has one-third the strength of one unit of both Botox and Xeomin. This means that patients will need three units of Dysport to obtain the same results achieved with one unit of Botox and Xeomin. Because of this, the final cost of Dysport tends to be comparable to that of Botox and Xeomin. In addition, while results of Botox and Xeomin treatment last three to four months, Dysport produces results that may last as long as six months.
Each injectable comes with its own set of pros and cons, which Dr. Barrera can discuss in detail with you during an in-office consultation.
2. Dermal Fillers
A total of 2.69 million dermal filler procedures were performed in 2017, a 3 percent increase from the previous year. Dermal fillers can treat an array of facial aging signs including lines, wrinkles and lost volume. Like Botox, dermal fillers can be administered in a short in-office treatment, with very little pain. Depending on the specific product, results can last between several months and two years.
Dr. Barrera offers an array of dermal fillers including hyaluronic acid based fillers (e.g., Restylane, Juvederm, Belotero) and collagen boosters like Sculptra. Restylane is commonly used to restore volume to sunken cheeks, while Restylane’s Refyne and Defyne are used as natural expression fillers for the lips, eye hollows and melolabial folds.
A growing trend in plastic surgery has been the use of hyaluronic acid fillers for non-surgical rhinoplasty. Non-surgical rhinoplasty can reshape or resize the nose, or correct a minor cosmetic flaw on the nose. The effects are temporary but can be highly successful in enhancing the symmetry of the overall face and harmony between the facial features.
Dr. Barrera can discuss the benefits and limitations of each dermal filler product during an in-office consultation.
3. Chemical peel
Approximately 1.37 million chemical peel procedures were performed in 2017. An exfoliative treatment, chemical peels slough away the dead skin cells that are responsible for a dull and damaged skin complexion. This process triggers the body’s collagen process, in turn leading to healthier and younger-looking skin. Chemical peels vary in strength and can be used to treat lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores and sun damage.
4. Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal accounted for 1.1 million cosmetic procedures in 2017. The procedure is a great alternative to traditional hair removal methods (e.g., shaving, waxing) that are time consuming, painful and costly. Laser hair removal uses concentrated light energy to target hair follicles and discourage future hair growth in the target area. Many patients love laser hair removal because it’s virtually painless, and can be used on the legs, bikini area, back, chest, underarms and other areas. Because hair grows in cycles, several treatment sessions are needed to achieve the best results.
Non-Surgical Fat Reduction Procedures on the Rise
More people are looking for minimally invasive ways to slim down body areas, according to the latest statistics from ASPS. Non-surgical body sculpting and fat reduction procedures saw a nearly 20 percent increase last year. Among the most popular procedures is Kybella, the first injectable product approved by the FDA to eliminate submental fat, a cosmetic problem commonly referred to as the “double chin.” Kybella is a safe treatment that when injected into the chin and neck areas, works to eliminate fat cells. Results are gradual but permanent. Most patients require several sessions spaced weeks apart to achieve the best results.
What Are Your Cosmetic Needs?
Has reading about the top minimally invasive cosmetic procedures inspired you to pursue your cosmetic goals? Dr. Barrera will gladly meet with you to discuss your facial rejuvenation and skin needs, and recommend the proper solution.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Barrera, please contact us by calling (210) 468-5426 or emailing us today.