Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgeries Up in a Down Economy

PRLog (Press Release) - Mar 23, 2009 -
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), just released a new survey showing there were more than 10 million surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures performed in the U.S. in 2008. That's about 1 million fewer than in 2007, representing a 12% decrease in the total number of cosmetic procedures. The survey does seem to indicate though a clear shift toward noninvasive procedures The ASAPS has been conducting these surveys since 1997 and cosmetic procedures are up and average of 65% since 1997, minimally invasive procedures are up 239%.

“It is important to appreciate the distinction between invasive surgical procedures and minimally invasive procedures,” states Dr. Ourian, “in order to understand the numbers. In the simplest sense invasive procedures typically involve the skin being cut. While some invasive procedures are now performed in-office most still require an operating room of some sort. To make these procedures more appealing to potential patients plastic surgeons are performing some under a local, rather than general, anesthesia.”

“Some examples of invasive procedures are: breast augmentation, breast lift, liposuction, rhinoplasty and eyelid surgery. The costs are high because patients typically have to pay for the time of their plastic surgeon as well as the time of an anesthesiologist and the use of an operating theater. A hidden cost, but one which I’m sure is on the minds of more consumers than ever, is the downtime. If you can’t work, you can’t earn a living. And even if you’re taking paid time off to recover, I think people aren’t sure leaving their job for a week or more is a good idea these days.”

“Minimally invasive procedures on the other hand”, continues Dr. Ourian, “offer long-lasting results and little to no downtime, typically at a fraction of the cost of invasive cosmetic surgery.”

The number one procedure by volume was Botox; More than 2.4 million Botox injections were reported in 2008. The explanation for this is plain to see. Botox injections costing a few hundred dollars and require only a single, simple office visit to treat lines and wrinkles with no downtime. A face lift averages more than $6,000 and requires up to two weeks of recovery. It’s no surprise that face lifts are up only 33% from 1997, while Botox treatments are up more than 3,600%.

According to Allergan Inc. the manufacturer of Botox, Dr. Ourian’s Epione Beverly Hills is the busiest Botox office in Southern California. “I certainly pride myself on this,” notes Dr. Ourian, “but minimally invasive procedures means a lot more than Botox these days. I am a big proponent of dermal fillers such as Radiesse®, Restylane®, Juvéderm® and Perlane®. With a simple injection or series of injections I can eliminate wrinkles and facial folds.”

“I know that these are difficult times for some of my colleagues who are excellent plastic surgeons and dermatologists,” concludes Dr. Ourian, but we still maintain a waiting list. Some procedures such as Botox and laser hair removal are as popular today as they’ve ever been. We also offer a line of skin care products.”

Dr. Ourian's Epione Medical Corporation, located in Beverly Hills Golden Triangle, is among the most comprehensive and state-of-the-art laser and aesthetic surgery centers. Dr. Ourian has been a pioneer for laser technology and non-invasive aesthetic procedures including Restylane, BOTOX®, Juvéderm, Radiesse and Sculptra. These treatments are used for correction or reversal of a variety of conditions such as acne, acne scars, acne scar removal, skin discoloration, lip enhancement, wrinkles, stretch marks, varicose veins, unwanted hair, and tattoos, cellulite, and tens of others. For further information please contact (888) 951-3377 or visit: www.epione.com.