Our Summary

This study looks at who is using academic cosmetic surgery services. The researchers used data from 2018 and focused on five popular procedures: eyelid surgery, breast augmentation, liposuction, nose reshaping, and facelifts. They found that 44,078 procedures were performed at academic surgical centers. They grouped patients by income and found that fewer low-income patients (13.7%) had surgeries compared to high-income patients (37.9%). They also found that low-income patients were more likely to have breast enlargement surgery, while high-income patients were more likely to have facelifts.

The study also found that most patients came from large cities, and these patients were more likely to have nose reshaping, facelifts, and liposuction. Patients from smaller cities were more likely to have eyelid surgery. In terms of payment, the majority of patients either paid for the surgery themselves or were privately insured. However, 88% of patients on Medicare had eyelid surgery. Those who paid for the surgery themselves were more likely to have breast enlargement, liposuction, and facelifts.

The researchers concluded that a patient’s income, location, and method of payment all influence which cosmetic surgeries they have and where they have them. This information can help academic cosmetic practices to better meet the needs of their patients.

FAQs

  1. What were the five popular cosmetic procedures focused on in the study?
  2. How did the income level of patients influence the type of cosmetic surgeries they had?
  3. What differences were found in the types of surgeries patients from large cities and smaller cities had?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about cosmetic surgery is to carefully consider their financial situation and research the costs associated with the procedure they are interested in. It is important to ensure that they can afford the surgery and any potential follow-up care that may be needed. Additionally, patients should choose a reputable and experienced surgeon who specializes in the specific procedure they are interested in to ensure the best possible outcome. It is also important to have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery and to discuss any concerns or questions with the surgeon before moving forward.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who are recommended cosmetic surgery are those who are looking to improve their appearance, boost their self-confidence, or correct physical imperfections. Patients who seek cosmetic surgery may have concerns such as sagging skin, excess fat, asymmetrical features, or signs of aging that they wish to address. Additionally, patients who have realistic expectations and are in good overall health are often considered good candidates for cosmetic surgery.

Timeline

Before cosmetic surgery:

  1. Patient researches different procedures and potential surgeons.
  2. Patient schedules a consultation with a surgeon to discuss their goals and expectations.
  3. Patient undergoes a physical examination and medical history review to determine if they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  4. Patient receives information on the procedure, risks, and recovery process.
  5. Patient schedules surgery date and makes necessary preparations.

After cosmetic surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure under anesthesia.
  2. Patient is monitored in a recovery room before being discharged or admitted for overnight observation.
  3. Patient experiences post-operative pain, swelling, bruising, and discomfort.
  4. Patient follows post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon, including medication, rest, and avoiding certain activities.
  5. Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
  6. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and sees final results of the surgery over time.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the cosmetic procedure I am considering?
  2. What is the recovery process like and how much downtime should I expect?
  3. What results can I realistically expect from the procedure?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that might be better suited for my goals?
  5. How many times have you performed this specific procedure and what is your success rate?
  6. Can I see before and after photos of patients who have undergone the same procedure?
  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure and who will administer it?
  8. What is the total cost of the procedure, including any additional fees or follow-up appointments?
  9. What will the post-operative care plan look like and how long will it take to see the final results?
  10. What are the qualifications and credentials of the surgical team who will be performing the procedure?

Reference

Authors: Moore R, Zilinskas K, Tarabishy S, Herrera FA. Journal: Ann Plast Surg. 2022 Jun 1;88(5 Suppl 5):S490-S494. doi: 10.1097/SAP.0000000000003159. PMID: 35690944