The plastic surgery world has seen a strong shift towards minimally invasive procedures. They’ve increased a drastic 150 percent since 2000. More patients and physicians are leaning towards them because they give patients more options and provide the ability to focus on specific target areas that patients want altered. Currently, the top five minimally invasive plastics surgeries are:
Botulinum Toxin Type A Injections (Botox)
Botulinum Toxin Type A is most often referred to as Botox (a brand name). The toxin is injected into the skin and blocks nerve signals to the muscle. When this happens, the muscles weaken and no longer contract. Smoother skin with less wrinkles is the result. Common injection sites are areas around the forehead, eyes, and eyebrows. It’s less commonly injected into muscles of the face and bands in the neck.
Soft Tissue Fillers
As they age, people lose fat under their face’s skin. This results in a face that appears “sunken” due to loss of volume in the cheeks. Soft tissue fillers are used counteract this process. They use namely collagen and hyaluronic acid to fill sunken areas in and produce cheeks with more volume and fullness. Common filler brand names are Radiesse, Juvéderm, Restylane, and Belotero.
Chemical Peels
Acne, various skin conditions, and exposure to sun can damage layers of the skin. Chemical peels are used to remove damaged layers and stimulate the growth of new skin. They’ve proven to be effective in improving or removing acne scars, age spots, and pigmented skin. They’re available in many different formulas that should only be decided on by a certified plastic surgeon. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol are the two most common.
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is an increasingly popular procedure that uses concentrated light to damage hair follicles and stop growth. It can be used to remove unwanted hair from the head, face, underarm, arm, back, bikini line, leg, and other areas. It’s a convenient and more permanent alternative to tweezing, shaving, and waxing.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is another increasingly popular minimally invasive procedure. It’s steadily becoming an alternative to Botox injections because it can produce better results with less side effects. During the procedure, the surgeon gently creates very minor abrasions that stimulate collagen production when they begin to heal. The following results are often seen:
- Improved skin tone
- Improved complexion
- Refreshed skin
- Reduction or elimination of large pores
- Reduction or elimination of fine lines and wrinkles
As interest in minimally invasive procedures increases, it’s important to take note that plastic surgeons are the most qualified individuals to consult should be interested in a procedure. They have the training and education needed to evaluate your condition and determine if you are a surgical candidate. Never allow someone who is not a physician to evaluate and treat you. Tremendous irreversible side effects can occur when you put your body in the hands of someone who isn’t qualified to treat it. Team up with a physician you are comfortable with and your results will surely be positive.
