A new U.S. study reveals that an increasing number of Americans are considering cosmetic surgery.
Once perceived as a privilege of the affluent, plastic surgery is now being scheduled by men and women across all economic strata—as routinely as an annual physical exam.
Conducted by Harris Interactive in late 2009 via a poll on RealSelf.com, the study surveyed over 2,200 Americans. Results showed 54% expressed interest in cosmetic surgery if affordable—a 7% increase from the previous year.
Surprisingly to the survey organizers, among those considering surgery, 52% cited teeth whitening as their top choice when asked about preferred procedures, followed by tummy tucks, liposuction, and hair removal in fourth place.
Breast augmentation also ranked as a popular option in this survey, though it did not place among the top choices. Among women aged 18-34, 24% expressed interest in breast augmentation. Older women, particularly those over 35, showed greater interest in tummy tucks.
Only 6% expressed interest in Botox treatments for wrinkle reduction. Those who had previously received Botox were predominantly women aged 45 and above. The survey also revealed that 13% were considering alternative approaches to laser skin treatments.
The survey also revealed differing cosmetic trends among people of the same age. While 33% of women over 55 expressed interest in facelifts, only 13% of men shared this desire.
Furthermore, the survey indicated that interest in cosmetic procedures declines with age. Over half of those aged 55 stated they would not undergo cosmetic surgery, even if they could afford it.