When it comes to plastic surgery, some procedures are more in demand than others. The more popular surgical procedures shed a light on what people want from their bodies during a particular year. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, some procedures have remained at the top of the list in terms of popularity for several years.
1. Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, using either silicone or saline implants, has been the most popular plastic surgery procedure in the country since 2006, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. In 2012, nearly 300,000 augmentation procedures were performed across the US. Women choose the surgery to increase the size of the breasts or to even out unequally sized breasts. Silicone is a more popular choice for implants and is used in more than 60% of the procedures. The result from silicone implants feels more natural.
2. Rhinoplasty
In 2012, the second most popular cosmetic procedure was rhinoplasty, or a "nose job." 243,000 nose reshaping procedures were performed in 2012. Rhinoplasty is one of Dr. Krau's favorite procedures to do, as it requires precision and attention to detail. He carefully crafts each nose to match a person's face.
3. Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery, to either improve the look of the upper or lower eyelids, or in some cases, both, was another popular procedure in 2012. Around 204,000 eyelid surgeries, or blepharoplasties, were performed for cosmetic reasons last year. The surgery helps reduce puffiness in the eye area and the appearance of bags under the eyes. Blepharoplasty can be performed for medical reasons, too. For example, it can be performed to fix drooping eyelids that make it difficult for someone to see.
4. Liposuction
Another very popular procedure, liposuction removes excess fat from just below the surface of the skin. In 2012, 202,000 liposuction procedures took place in the US. The procedure is performed to help shape the body permanently. Common areas for liposuction include the thighs, stomach area, hips and chin. Liposuction is typically performed on people who are a normal weight or very near a normal weight. It's meant to remove stubborn fat and isn't a substitute for losing weight through diet or exercise.
5. Facelifts
In 2012, facelifts were the fifth most popular plastic surgery procedure. The surgery reduces signs of aging in the face and neck area and gives a patient a more youthful appearance. During the procedure, the muscles of the face and neck are tightened and excess skin is removed. Fat transfer to the face is a recent addition that Dr. Krau uses to rejuvenate the face. It helps to fill certain areas that have deflated. It also has the added benefit of bringing stem cells to the face. These cells have a powerful ability to help regenerate all the tissues of the face.