More people are going under the needle for minimally invasive surgeries
From high heels to hair products, everyone is trying their best to look good on a budget — even when it comes to cosmetic surgery.
According to a national procedural statistics report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), minimally invasive procedures such as Botox were up 5 percent from 2007 to 2008. The top five surgical procedures of 2008, according to the ASPS, were breast augmentation, nose reshaping, liposuction, eyelid surgery and tummy tucks.
During harder economic times, more patients might not be able to afford the more permanent surgeries, but they are still finding a way to get that beauty fix using minimally invasive cosmetic procedures. The top five in 2008 were Botox that can diminish facial fine lines and wrinkles, hyaluronic acid fillers to plump the lips or soften facial creases, chemical peels, laser hair removal and microdermabrasion, a skin rejuvenation technique.
Most are familiar with the Botox craze, but some might be surprised that chemical peels are still popular considering there are less abrasive beauty treatments available.
A chemical peel uses a chemical solution to smooth the patient’s face texture by removing the skin’s damaged outer layers.
Consumers are also cutting the costs of plastic surgery these days by having combined procedures performed during one operating room session. This is usually a common practice with simple cosmetic procedures, such as Botox and skin-resurfacing procedures. But it’s also making its way into the surgery room.
Combining these procedures can sometimes save on anesthesia costs and facility fees, while decreasing the total recovery time in some cases. The most common surgical combinations include face lift and neck lift to remove wrinkles and fine lines or breast augmentation, liposuction and tummy tuck to reshape the body. Patients must consult with their doctor regarding any potential risks of combining procedures before deciding on a course of action.
BEFORE YOU GO
The five essential steps to take before having plastic surgery from the ASPS:
Do your homework
Research the procedure, the benefits and the risks.
Have realistic expectations
Ask your plastic surgeon about the benefits and risks of your surgery; discuss your expectations and understand side effects and recovery time.
Be informed
Talk to patients who have had your procedure so you know what to expect.
Ask tough questions
Consult with your plastic surgeon and discuss your full medical history to determine the most appropriate treatment.
Choose the right surgeon
Choosing a surgeon who is board certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery who is properly trained, accredited and with an adequate experience level.
Expert tips to keep beauty lasting all day long
ARA Content
What woman doesn’t dream of looking as fresh at the end of the day as she did when she looked in the mirror that morning, with perfect hair and makeup? However, by the end of the day, hair goes flat, mascara smudges and manicures chip.
Ying Chu, beauty and health director for Marie Claire magazine, sees this dilemma firsthand.
“Women are busier than ever these days juggling multiple commitments,” she said, “and as a result it has become a priority to seek out beauty buys from trusted brands that are not only long-lasting, but budget friendly.”
Follow her beauty tips to achieve a fresh look that will outlast even the busiest schedule:
- Before applying your makeup, use a mattifying primer first. Because it absorbs oil throughout the day, it prevents oil from breaking down your makeup, making it last longer.
- To help face and eye makeup last throughout the day, apply a cream formula first, then layer on a powder over the top of that to set it.
- Long, full eyelashes can enhance any look. To ensure your lashes remain lengthy and curled, start by layering a waterproof sealant, or any waterproof mascara over your regular mascara. It will make your mascara last without being impossible to remove.
