While over 14 million plastic surgery procedures were performed in 2012, the types of procedures differed considerably across the various age groups. The age group of 35 to 50 year-olds makes up the highest percentage (43%) with efforts being made to slow down the effects of aging which are now unavoidable to overlook. This is why this age group accounts for almost 50% of Botox and injectable filler use. Concomitantly, the use of laser, chemical peels and light therapies are also prevalent in an effort for skin improvement and wrinkle reduction. Reversing the effects of childbearing are seen in the high number of breast augmentations, tummy tucks and liposuction in this age group as well. The age group 51 to 64 year olds are the next highest users at 28% of the cosmetic pie. As 60 is the new 50, facial surgical procedures dominate with nearly two-thirds of all eyelid lifts, browlifts and facelifts occurring in this group. The 19 to 34 year-old age group accounted for 20% of procedures done with breast augmentation, liposuction and rhinoplasty being common surgeries and laser hair removal and microdermabrasion being the most commonly done non-surgical procedures. At the opposite ends of the age groups, the 65 and older group (9%) and under the age of 19 (1%) made up the rmaining 10% of the procedures performed.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana