The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) has recently released their 2022 procedural research, which sheds light on the growing popularity of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures in the United States. According to the report, there were a staggering 26.2 million procedures performed last year, marking a significant 19% increase since 2019.
Among the top cosmetic surgical procedures, liposuction took the lead, followed closely by breast augmentation, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), breast lift, and eyelid surgery. Interestingly, breast reduction procedures also experienced a notable surge in demand. On the other hand, when it comes to minimally invasive procedures, neuromodulator injections (such as Botox), hyaluronic acid fillers, skin resurfacing, skin treatment with combination lasers, and lip augmentation with injectable materials topped the list.
In the field of reconstructive procedures, tumor removal, hand surgery, breast reconstruction, maxillofacial procedures, and scar revision were the most commonly performed. These procedures play a crucial role in improving quality of life for patients who have experienced trauma, illness, or other medical conditions.
The COVID-19 pandemic seems to have played a role in the increase in procedures, as patients are no longer postponing treatments. With the shift in priorities brought on by the pandemic, people are now more inclined to address their aesthetic concerns and undergo necessary reconstructive surgeries.
The face and neck have emerged as significant areas of focus, with eyelid surgeries, facelifts, and cheek implants witnessing a surge in popularity. In addition, body-centric procedures like liposuction and noninvasive fat reduction have seen increased demand. Breast augmentation, breast lifts, and breast reductions have also remained popular choices among patients.
The influence of social media cannot be overlooked in this trend. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have contributed to a decrease in the stigma around plastic surgery. Patients are now more open about their experiences and interests in various procedures, leading to a wider acceptance and curiosity among the general population.
The ASPS Annual Procedural Statistics, which have been compiled since 1992, are considered a reliable source of data in the field. The information for the 2022 report was collected from ASPS member surgeons and affiliated companies, namely CosmetAssure and PatientNow. With this comprehensive data, medical professionals and researchers can better understand the evolving landscape of plastic surgery and make informed decisions for patient care.