According to data collected by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, nearly 2 million cosmetic surgical procedures were performed in 2015. Although tough economic times have forced cosmetic surgeons to drop their prices, millions of Americans are still willing to open their wallets and their bodies in the name of beauty. Over the past decade, trends in the most commonly received procedures have shifted slightly. Despite some fluctuation, 5 surgical procedures stand out as clear front-runners in America’s booming cosmetic industry.
- Breast Augmentation–When it comes to breast size in America, bigger is decidedly better. Over the past decade, breast augmentation has taken the lead for the most common cosmetic surgery more than 5 years in a row. More commonly known as a “boob job,” this procedure involves the insertion of saline or silicone implant devices into the breast tissue.
- Liposuction–Taking the lead in 2006 and 2011, liposuction has given breast augmentation a run for its money in the race to become the nation’s most popular cosmetic surgery. More glamorously called “body contouring,” liposuction can be performed on a variety of areas, including the upper arms, abdomen, buttocks, thighs, and even ankles.
- Eyelid Lift–As arguably the most attention-grabbing feature on the face, eyes are another one of the most common sites for cosmetic surgery. Displeased with the natural look of aging, thousands of people opt for blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, each year. Procedures can be done both above and below the eyes to remove fat deposits and reduce excess skin, creating a more youthful appearance. In recent years, blepharoplasty has raised concerns about the abuse of Medicare for cosmetic purposes, with many people attempting to receive the procedure for its ability to improve vision.
- Tummy Tuck–There is no denying that flat stomachs are a glorified female feature. From red-carpet showcases to bikini body magazines, the attention given to flat tummies has given this procedure its top-5 ranking. An abdominoplasty involves the surgical conjoining of loose, inner abdominal muscles with firm, outer muscles for a more taut appearance and feel. Tummy tucks are common among patients who have excess skin as a result of extreme weight loss, and can be used in conjunction with liposuction.
- Rhinoplasty (AKA Nose Job)–As another prominent facial feature, it is no surprise that noses are subject to idealized beauty standards in America. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 200,000 Americans received nose jobs last year. Popularized by celebrities in the early 2000s, rhinoplasty has held its spot in the top 5 cosmetic procedures for the past decade. “A patient’s eligibility to undergo this invasive surgery is determined by a variety of tests, including psychological evaluations to ensure the candidate has realistic expectations of the surgical outcome,” said Dana Goldberg MD.
