Americans are increasingly embracing aesthetic procedures as a form of self-care, with a steady rise in cosmetic surgeries and minimally invasive treatments. According to a new report by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), over 28.5 million minimally invasive procedures were conducted in 2024, alongside nearly 1.6 million cosmetic surgical procedures. Liposuction and breast augmentation dominated the surgical landscape, while body contouring treatments saw significant growth.
The report attributes this trend to factors such as social media’s influence, changing societal attitudes, and the impact of weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, which can lead to sagging skin and increased demand for procedures like thigh lifts and tummy tucks. Dr. Scott Hollenbeck, ASPS president, highlighted that body contouring procedures experienced the highest growth in 2024, indicating a broader shift in how patients perceive and invest in their aesthetic health.
Minimally invasive treatments remain popular due to their affordability and minimal downtime. HA fillers, in particular, continue to be a top choice despite so-called ‘filler fatigue.’ Additionally, the report noted that over 837,000 prescriptions for GLP-1 weight-loss medications were issued by ASPS surgeons in 2024, with many patients exploring both surgical and non-surgical options to achieve their desired results.
Social media is playing a crucial role in normalizing aesthetic care, with patients openly sharing their experiences and seeking more natural, subtle enhancements. The trend is shifting toward a ‘ballerina body,’ characterized by smaller implants and refined contours, as noted by Dr. Michele Shermak. This reflects a broader cultural movement toward holistic self-care, with aesthetic procedures complementing mental well-being and lifestyle choices.
While the focus is on cosmetic procedures, the report also highlights growth in reconstructive surgeries, emphasizing the role of plastic surgeons in complex wound care and trauma treatments. ASPS underscores the importance of safety, recommending that procedures be performed by board-certified professionals. As the demand for aesthetic treatments continues to rise, the field is evolving to meet patient expectations, balancing innovation with ethical and safety standards.