What are the most popular plastic surgery procedures for the holiday party season?
The holiday party season is nearly in full swing. That means Thanksgiving get-togethers, holiday work gatherings, seasonal celebrations and the finale of the holiday party season – New Year's Eve. During this hectic time of the year, everyone wants to look their best and dress up their holiday look with a little more oomph. Some people choose bold makeup, while others flock to the salon for fresh haircuts and colors. Still, others want to refine their seasonal aesthetic with plastic surgery treatments.
What are the most popular plastic surgery procedures leading to the holiday party season? Board-certified plastic surgeons have the 411.
Plastic surgeons are part of the glam squad
By far, the most resounding answer from plastic surgeons has to be minimally invasive procedures like Botox and fillers. Ashley Amalfi, MD, sums up the holiday season in one sentence: "We have lots of injectables for sure!"
She's not alone. Nationwide, plastic surgeons will see an uptick in the number of syringes being used for fillers and neuromodulators like Botox around this time of year.
"Neuromodulators and fillers, in general, are more popular during this time," said Kristy Hamilton, MD. "While some patients receive Botox religiously each quarter, for example, some will only seek treatment around this holiday time as a luxury experience. Or they will receive the treatment as a gift or present! This is a time we have an influx of husbands calling to get gift cards for their wives so they can choose their desired treatment experience."
Sara Dickie, MD, suggests that there is no contest. It is fillers and neuromodulators by a longshot.
"Without question, it's nonsurgical," said Dr. Dickie. "Neurotoxin for wrinkles, fillers and lasers. All things with low downtime and big impact for looking refreshed, energized and photo ready."
Unsurprisingly, these procedures would increase in popularity around the holiday party season. Recovery time is relatively short, and patients tend to see results quickly. You can achieve a refreshed and rejuvenated look with minimal hassle.
Other options for a holiday-ready appearance
There are, of course, other options to help you glam up for party season.
"Overall, we see a big increase in skin treatments to achieve a holiday glow," said Dr. Hamilton. "It is also an incredibly popular time for lasers and surgery because patients have some holiday time off – or have PTO they are about to lose. There is always a boost in nonsurgical treatments annually because patients are gifting themselves, receiving treatments as a gift or choosing to treat themselves to look their best during the holiday party circuit."
She said laser resurfacing procedures like fractionated CO2 treatments targeting fine lines and wrinkles, pigment correction and texture and pore smoothing are perfect for achieving a holiday "glow up." Laser procedures also synergize when combined with other seasonally popular treatments like neuromodulator treatments.
"The low sun exposure during this time makes it perfect for these treatments – and they can dramatically rejuvenate the face and neck when performed aggressively," said Dr. Hamilton. "Laser combined with in-office upper blepharoplasty is my favorite holiday mini-surgery combination to refresh the face with a rapid recovery."
You still don't want to skip the sunscreen, but if you are worried about the sun's harsh summer rays, the run-up to the holiday party season may be the best time to invest in laser treatments.
Dr. Hamilton also noted other popular holiday skincare treatments.
"In general, we see more skin-enhancing treatments to achieve a holiday glow – chemical peels and microneedling," said Dr. Hamilton. "I also expect the 'no-peel' peels to be popular this year. These are very light peels that create a smooth, glossy finish without significant downtime. Regenerative medicine continues to be popular – topical exosome treatments and PRF injections to the face and hands. These are especially popular with patients who lead an 'organic,' natural lifestyle and want to enhance their skin utilizing their own growth factors."
Opting for surgery after the holidays
However, it isn't just the holiday party season that has individuals flocking to their plastic surgeon's office.
"Just post-holidays, I have a lot of facial surgeries – eyelids and facelifts – when people are done hosting and partying and have a good four weeks of downtime and ability to recuperate," said Dr. Dickie. "Winter and early spring are surgery boom times for me in the Midwest."
The holidays are an especially popular time for more in-depth surgical procedures because people tend to take more time off around the holidays. This means they can schedule a procedure without having to miss too much work or make complicated accommodations to their work schedule.
Glowing up for the holidays
Whether it is the gift you give yourself or someone you love, plenty of options can have you looking and feeling your best just in time to celebrate with the people you care about – and show off a little.
Regardless of what you choose, don't wait until the last minute. Plan ahead for your perfect party look. Many minimally invasive treatments have little downtown, but there still is a recovery period, so don't expect to go directly from your treatment to your party. You'll ideally want to leave about two weeks for the treatment to take full effect.
Don't know what to choose to help you shine bright this holiday? Ask a board-certified plastic surgeon who is an ASPS member what treatment is best for your unique skin and facial structure.
To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.
