Nearly 12 million cosmetic procedures were performed in 2007, with breast augmentation, liposuction and nose reshaping procedures ranking in the top ten. Still, many Americans chose a minimally-invasive treatment to improve their appearance, turning to BOTOX and microdermabrasion to fight the signs of aging and restore their youthful looks.   

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures such as laser hair removal and BOTOX accounted for 10 million treatments in 2007.

Here’s a closer look at the top five list from this past year’s report:  

#1: BOTOX

Procedures performed:  4.6 million  

BOTOX injections continue to be the cosmetic procedure of choice for men and women alike, and offer several benefits for the anti-aging market. BOTOX injections can be used to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and some studies suggest that BOTOX treatments can also help reduce migraines and other pain in the body. BOTOX reduces the nerve impulses linked to certain muscles in the face and body, essentially paralyzing the muscles to reduce contractions.   

#2: Hyaluronic Acid

Procedures performed:  1,051,000

Hyaluronic acid is the substance found in dermal fillers such as Restylane and Juvederm, and can be used for lip augmentation, cheek enhancement and other procedures that imitate a surgical facelift. Since the acid is not absorbed by the body in the same way as collagen, these dermal fillers may provide long-term results.   

#3: Chemical Peels

Procedures performed:  1,025,000

Chemical peels are readily available at day spas and medispas across the country, but are often a part of a complete skin rejuvenation plan at the dermatologist’s office. Chemical peels work by removing the top layer of the skin and stimulating collagen production; the potency of the chemical peel determines the level of results achieved, and options range from lighter AHA peels to intensive phenol peels. Chemical peels can be combined with other skin rejuvenation techniques such as laser skin tightening procedures, laser age spot removal and collagen-boosting treatments such as Thermage and Radiasse.  

#4: Laser Hair Removal

Procedures performed:  906,000

Laser hair removal makes it easier to manage unwanted facial or body hair so you don’t have to resort to shaving and waxing on a regular basis. Laser hair removal procedures do require consistent treatment, but most people can enjoy lasting results after a few weeks or months of appointments.    

#5: Microdermabrasion

Procedures performed:  897,000

Microdermabrasion offers several benefits for aging skin and can help remove fine lines and wrinkles permanently. The procedure involves ‘sandblasting’ the skin with aluminum oxide crystals to exfoliate the top layer to reveal the fresh layer underneath. This procedure can also be paired with other skin rejuvenation techniques for a complete wrinkle removal treatment program.  

From BOTOX to chemical peels, growing trends in minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures indicate more people are turning to elective surgery to improve their appearance. Since the quest for the fountain of youth will continue for years to come, cosmetic surgery centers and medispas are developing innovative treatments and lifetime maintenance plans for patients of all ages and backgrounds.  

Learn more about the latest cosmetic surgery options in our Research section, or contact a cosmetic surgeon in your area for a consultation.  The initial consultation can shed some light on the right cosmetic procedure for your skin and health so you can improve your appearance and restore your youthful looks with ease.