March, 27, 2009, Showing sensitivity to weaknesses in the U.S. economy, plastic surgery was not spared from the recession’s grasp. According to the newest national procedural statistics report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), in 2008, doctors performed over 12 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures – encompassing both surgical and minimally-invasive procedures. Surgical numbers dropped nine percent and minimally-invasive numbers rose five percent. Nearly 5 million reconstructive plastic surgery procedures were performed, slightly more than the previous year.
“Like most sectors, plastic surgery is feeling the effects of the economic downturn,” said John Canady, MD, ASPS president. “However, repeat patients and those putting off surgery, likely sustained demand for some minimally-invasive procedures. Growth in demand will likely return as the recession eases and baby boomer’s offspring begin to explore surgical options.” More
