The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) has released a comprehensive report that highlights the growing acceptance of cosmetic procedures as a part of self-care, with a remarkable increase in both surgical and minimally invasive treatments in 2024.
According to the report, there were over 28.5 million minimally invasive aesthetic procedures performed in 2024, alongside a steady demand for surgical procedures. A total of nearly 1.6 million surgical procedures were conducted in the same year, with liposuction and breast augmentation remaining the most popular among them. Body contouring procedures saw the highest increase, which could reflect the impact of GLP-1 weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, which may result in sagging skin and thus encourage more surgical interventions.
Dr. Scott Hollenbeck, the ASPS President, noted a 1% rise in surgical procedures from 2023, with body contouring procedures experiencing the most significant increase. Thigh and buttock lifts rose by 3%, while arm and neck lifts increased by 2%. The report emphasizes that minimally invasive procedures are in high demand due to their affordability and minimal downtime. Dr. Kristy Hamilton, an ASPS member surgeon, explained that HA fillers continue to be the top treatment despite so-called ‘filler fatigue,’ as they are highly effective when used naturally.
The report also includes the first-ever tracking of GLP-1 weight-loss medication usage by ASPS surgeons, revealing that over 837,000 prescriptions were written in 2, which had an impact on the need for cosmetic procedures. Of these patients, 20% had already undergone surgery, 39% were considering it, and 41% were exploring non-surgical options. Dr. Heather Faulkner, a cosmetic plastic surgeon based in Atlanta, noted that while these medications are aiding patients in reaching a healthier weight before undergoing procedures, they are not a substitute for surgery.
Experts suggest that several factors contribute to the rising demand for cosmetic procedures, including greater societal acceptance of aesthetic treatments, fueled by social media and a shift towards viewing such procedures as part of a holistic self-care routine. Dr. Michele Shermak, a general plastic surgeon in Baltimore, commented that there is a trend towards the ‘ballerina body,’ where women are seeking refined, subtle enhancements rather than exaggerated results.
Additionally, the report highlights an increase in reconstructive surgeries in 2024, surpassing one million procedures. Reconstructive surgeries, including the removal of cancerous tumors and treating complex wounds, are not just for aesthetic purposes but also play a critical role in healing and recovery. Dr. Sara Dickie, a general plastic surgeon based in Morton Grove, Illinois, highlighted that plastic surgeons are innovators in complex wound care, addressing a wide range of conditions including trauma and dog bites.
Despite the growing popularity of these procedures, the ASPS emphasizes the importance of safety, recommending that aesthetic procedures be performed by board-certified plastic surgeons with the appropriate training and experience. Dr. Hollenbeck added that when done correctly, aesthetic care can positively impact both mental and physical well-being, reinforcing the idea that self-care includes not only appearance but also overall health and confidence.