Aesthetic plastic surgery—including surgical and non-surgical procedures—is rising in the United States. According to the Aesthetic Society, Americans spent over $8.7 billion on aesthetic procedures in 2021, a 34 percent increase from the previous year’s $6 billion spent on aesthetic surgical procedures and over $3 billion on non-surgical aesthetic procedures. This growth can be attributed to many factors, including society’s growing focus on appearance, the availability of new and innovative procedures, and the increasing number of qualified surgeons.
Aesthetic doctors are becoming more and more popular in the United States. This is due, in part, to the increase in surgical and non-surgical procedures. Surgical procedures are often seen as the more “invasive” option. However, doctors can offer patients significant results that cannot be achieved through non-surgical means. For instance, surgical procedures can correct flaws and deformities resulting from congenital disabilities, injury, or disease.
Non-surgical procedures, on the other hand, are typically less invasive and require little to no recovery time. This is why, for many patients, non-surgical procedures are the preferred option. Non-surgical procedures can correct a wide variety of aesthetic concerns, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and sun damage.
Types of Aesthetic Doctors
There are a few types of aesthetic doctors. This includes plastic surgeons, cosmetic surgeons, dermatologists, and aesthetic dentists.
Plastic surgeons specialize in reconstructing a person’s appearance because of an injury or congenital disability. However, some plastic surgeons also offer procedures for enhancing appearances. Plastic surgeons can perform surgery on many body parts, such as the breasts, face, and stomach.
Cosmetic surgeons offer elective surgeries that focus on enhancing a person’s appearance. They can perform facelifts, nose jobs, and eyelid surgery. However, it’s important to note that cosmetic surgeons are different from plastic surgeons in terms of training and certification.
Dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating skin conditions. Still, they can offer cosmetic procedures such as laser hair removal, skin resurfacing, and injectable wrinkle treatments.
Dentists not only help with toothaches and gum issues, but they can also perform procedures to improve the appearance of your smile. Among the many procedures that dental clinics also offer, they also provide teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and dental implants. Aesthetic dentists work with you to create a healthy and beautiful smile.
The best way to find an aesthetic doctor is to search online or ask for referrals from friends, family, or your current doctor. Once you’ve found a few doctors that you’re interested in, be sure to schedule a consultation. In fact, your current doctor may already offer these procedures. So, if you’re interested in getting any kind of aesthetic procedure, be sure to ask your doctor. Since you are already their patient, they may be able to help you faster with your concerns or queries.
Risks and Potential Side Effects of Aesthetic Procedures
Most aesthetic procedures are considered safe, but risks are always involved. These include something as minor as bruising and swelling to some more serious ones like infection, scarring, nerve damage, and blood clots. However, the chances of experiencing any severe side effects are low, especially with experts.
Moreover, the risks and side effects will differ depending on the procedure you undergo. For instance, Botox’s risks and side effects vary from those of a nose job. Speaking with your doctor about the specific risks and side effects of the procedure you’re interested in is crucial.
This is also why listening to your doctor’s instructions regarding post-procedure care is vital. This will significantly help you avoid any potential complications and ensure that you heal without any issues.
Aesthetic Medicine Costs and Insurance
Generally, most procedures will fall within a few hundred dollars. In some cases, insurance providers might cover a portion of the cost, especially if the procedure is needed for medical reasons such as the repair of a congenital disability or the treatment of skin disease. Still, it is essential to check with your insurance provider beforehand to see if they offer any coverage for aesthetic medicine procedures.
However, insurance will likely not provide coverage for elective procedures, like cosmetic surgery, because it is considered a luxury. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of the cost of these procedures before you undergo them.
The best way to save on aesthetic medicine costs is to look for promotions or discounts. Many doctors will offer seasonal promotions or loyalty programs to help lower these procedures’ costs. It is also essential to remember that the price is not always indicative of the quality of care you will receive.
Aesthetic procedures are becoming increasingly popular as people strive to achieve their ideal appearance. It is always better to ask for an expert opinion before jumping into any appearance-enhancing methods. With their help, you can be sure that you are making the best decision for your needs and that you understand all the risks involved.
