For Boomers, a Sagging Economy Hasn’t Slowed Cosmetic Surgery

Cecily O’Connor
RedwoodAge.com

The down economy has yet to put a wrinkle in the cosmetic surgery industry. 

About 24 percent of surgeons are reporting an increase in bookings by existing patients compared to six months ago, according to the American Society for Dermatological Surgery, which polled 562 of its members. Nearly 32 percent of dermatological surgeons indicated that the number of new patients making appointments had increased by up to 30 percent, while nearly 63 percent have maintained a consistent bookings volume. 

Investing in health and beauty is still a priority during unsteady economic times, said Dr. Darrell Rigel, the society’s president. 

“Looking good helps people feel confident,” he said. 

That’s especially true for some boomers who have a very difficult time accepting the physical signs of aging in a society that glorifies a youthful appearance. 

Yet even as more adults choose to have procedures done, they face certain health and emotional risks such as disappointment as part of changing their face, breasts, nose or tummy. There are also financial implications to consider; most procedures don’t come cheap and injectibles such as Botox, which temporarily eliminate crow’s feet and the so-called “11s” that result from furrowed brows, require routine injections to keep up appearances.  

One alternative is to try yoga as a way to strengthen facial muscles, tightening skin without use of drugs or surgery.

‘Best Face Forward’
However, the society suggested in the survey that with the current unemployment climate, some boomers, in particular, may be looking to “put their best face forward on the interview circuit.” 

In additions to injectibles, surgeons are seeing more patients use laser treatments and fillers such as Juvederm that can erase lines around the mouth. 

“Patients are more inclined to have these types of procedures because they require almost no downtime and are easier to afford than more invasive procedures like facelifts,” Dr. Rigel said. 

About 51 percent of surgeons said their patients were more concerned about the costs of cosmetic-related procedures than they were six months ago, noting that some existing patients are allowing for more time in between visits, perhaps as a way of defraying the economic strain without having to do without.

At the same time, most surgeons expect a steady stream of business in the coming months. For example, 28 percent said their current use of fillers had increased up to 30 percent, compared to six months ago, and nearly 38 percent said that they expect to see an increase by up to 30 percent six months from now.  About 36 percent believe patients’ use of laser procedures will increase up to 30 percent.