General Information

What are the most popular plastic surgery procedures for the holiday party season?

Alia Willson | Freelance Writer Tuesday, November 19, 2024

What are the most popular plastic surgery procedures leading to the holiday party season? Board-certified plastic surgeons have the 411.

The recovery process across the ages: How recovery changes as you get older

Ariel Frankeny | Freelance Writer Wednesday, November 13, 2024

Your recovery from surgery plays a key role in your outcome. Following the directions of your plastic surgeon to the letter is very important, but your age also plays a critical role.

How plastic surgeons stay informed about trends and techniques

Alia Willson | Freelance Writer Wednesday, October 2, 2024

If you think graduating medical school is the end of education, think again. For many plastic surgeons, continuing education is vital to the job – a part of work that many surgeons take particularly seriously. However, if a surgeon isn't in the classroom, where do they go to stay up to date on the latest innovations in the industry?

Preparing for your plastic surgery procedure

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Wednesday, September 25, 2024

You'll quickly realize the surgery itself is only a small part of the plastic surgery journey. It's also about getting your body, mind, life and finances ready for the changes ahead. A lot goes into planning for surgery from medical clearances to recruiting help for recovery.

Is "awake" plastic surgery right for you?

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Monday, August 19, 2024

Have you ever heard of "awake" plastic surgery? It's a valuable alternative to the traditional approach, where you're under general anesthesia. This method allows you to stay conscious during the procedure, offering a different experience altogether.

Plastic surgery inspiration: Where should you look for fresh ideas?

Alia Willson | Freelance Writer Tuesday, August 13, 2024

If you are interested in plastic surgery but aren't sure which procedures may be proper for you, where can you turn for inspiration? Is it now a faux pas to save pictures and bring them to your surgeon's office? How do you articulate your goals and desired results, especially when the right words seem to escape you?

Anxious to get in for a plastic surgery consultation? Why patience for patients is a virtue

Alia Willson | Freelance Writer Tuesday, July 16, 2024

In-demand board-certified plastic surgeons in in-demand areas may have packed schedules. Packed schedules mean you may have a bit of a wait before you can get in for your initial consultation.

Planning a summer trip: What you need to know about medical tourism

Alia Willson | Freelance Writer Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Summer is vacation season. Many people opt to visit family, tour theme parks or relax on the beach, but there is a subsection of the vacationing population who travel for an altogether different purpose. For these people, summer travel is about medical tourism.

Understanding how medications interact with anesthesia and when to stop before plastic surgery

Alia Willson | Freelance Writer Friday, June 7, 2024

Most people understand that prescription medications and anesthesia do not mix. However, as new classes of drugs enter the market, there can be some confusion about what medications you can take up until surgery and which ones you need to put on pause.

A guide to preserving your mental well-being during your plastic surgery journey

Niccole Caan | ASPS Staff Thursday, May 30, 2024

Plastic surgeons are talking about mental health with patients before ever stepping into the operating room to make sure their expectations will match the actual results.

Uh-oh! It’s already swimsuit season: Procedures that will have you swimwear-ready fast

Alia Willson | Freelance Writer Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Did you blink and suddenly find yourself staring squarely into swimsuit season already? Time moves fast! If you have been in an extended hibernation mode, you may not feel ready to hit the beach or hang out with friends by the pool, even when the excruciating heat hits.

Top five questions plastic surgeons want you to ask them

Achieving gender parity: Women's role in plastic surgery

Niccole Caan | ASPS Staff Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Most plastic surgeons are men, but more women are entering the specialty each year. In 2024, women comprised only 19 percent of membership in the United States for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), but gender parity is coming to plastic surgery.

Balancing act: Parenthood and professionalism for women in plastic surgery

Niccole Caan | ASPS Staff Friday, March 15, 2024

Managing careers and families has always been a delicate balancing act for women. They are often told they can have it all, but the reality of working in a demanding specialty and the demands of being a working parent is challenging. Women plastic surgeons, however, agree that while it can certainly be difficult – it's not impossible.

The prevalence of TikTok and its impact on plastic surgery procedures

Ariel Frankeny | Freelance Writer Monday, March 11, 2024

Once seen as a platform for teens to post dance videos or showcase a daily outfit, TikTok has quickly become a leading source of information – and misinformation – for individuals around the world who are interested in learning more about plastic surgery.

Finding the best plastic surgeon for you

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Friday, March 8, 2024

Searching for the best plastic surgeon is like dating. You're looking for that special someone who gets you, shares your vision and will help you become your best self. It's a mix of excitement, nerves and high hopes as you sift through plastic surgeon websites, reviews and before and after photos, seeking a connection that feels just right.

Can you trust before and after photos?

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Friday, March 1, 2024

Scrolling through plastic surgery before and after photos, you may have marveled at the transformative results and wondered if they're too good to be true. You're not alone. While some images accurately show the outcomes of a procedure, others can leave you thinking there's more to the picture than meets the eye.

Making plastic surgery a more welcoming and diverse specialty

Niccole Caan | ASPS Staff Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Multiple studies have shown that diversity among healthcare teams leads to improved patient care, compliance and satisfaction – particularly among patients of color.

Worried about surgery scars? Here are some tips

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Thursday, January 25, 2024

A scar is a necessary part of many plastic surgery procedures, including breast lifts, arm lifts, tummy tucks and more. Yet, there are steps you can take to ensure your scar heals well and doesn't detract from your enhanced appearance.

Plastic surgery in the age of telemedicine: Challenges and opportunities

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Monday, January 8, 2024

The integration of telemedicine into plastic surgery marks a significant paradigm shift in how healthcare is delivered. Adding this approach to communication has transformed the traditional methods of patient consultations, follow-ups and overall patient interaction.

Understanding plastic surgery costs in the United States

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Friday, December 15, 2023

What you pay for a plastic surgery procedure could vary considerably based on several factors, including the doctor's education, experience, expertise and even where you live.

Plastic surgery at all ages: Tailoring procedures to different life stages

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Friday, December 1, 2023

Plastic surgery is a dynamic and evolving field that offers a wide range of options for individuals across different age groups.

The evolution of plastic surgery: From reconstruction to aesthetic enhancement

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Plastic surgery, often seen as a hallmark of modern medical aesthetics, has roots that delve deep into the annals of history. Today's procedures shimmer with the gloss of high-tech and the allure of social acceptance, but the journey of plastic surgery is an unfolding story that began long before the first Botox injection smoothed a furrowed brow.

The future of beauty: How the introduction of artificial intelligence is shaping the landscape of plastic surgery

Ariel Frankeny | Freelance Writer Monday, November 20, 2023

When looking at the future of the world at large, there is no doubt that there is one advancement that is heavy on the minds of men and women everywhere – artificial intelligence (AI). There is no doubt that AI will continue to make an impact and expand its reach within the coming years with continual advancements in the specialty of plastic surgery and the introduction of new methods of artificial learning.

Plastic surgeon launches campaign for National Latino Physician Day amid Latino doctor shortages

Niccole Caan | ASPS Staff Sunday, October 1, 2023

A shortage of Latino doctors is causing the medical profession to face an emergency of its own. Latinos are the largest minority group in the United States, representing 19% of the population. Despite this, less than seven percent of all U.S. physicians are Latino. This gap creates significant healthcare barriers, inequalities and poorer outcomes for Latino patients.

Circle of influence: How social media influencers are shaping plastic surgery trends

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Tuesday, September 19, 2023

The rise of social media has not only transformed the way we communicate but also has significantly influenced our perceptions of beauty. Influencers, with their extensive reach and relatability, play a pivotal role in steering the beauty narrative. This digital revolution has significantly impacted the cosmetic surgery industry.

Honoring Hispanic heritage in plastic surgery: Celebrating influential pioneers and innovations

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Friday, September 15, 2023

The world of plastic surgery has been a melting pot of ideas, influences and groundbreaking achievements where Hispanic surgeons have played a pivotal role in shaping its history and current practices.

Is plastic surgery an art or a science?

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Monday, September 11, 2023

A surgeon works on a patient with the precision of a scientist, with every instrument carefully calibrated and movements calculated down to the millimeter. Yet, in the same breath, the doctor also sees the procedure with an artist's eye, discerning the subtleties of form and symmetry to make decisions that will transform not just tissue but lives.

Imaging innovations: Seeing your future self before plastic surgery

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Friday, September 8, 2023

The line between reality and aspiration often blurs in a world where Instagram filters and Photoshop can easily manipulate appearances. Yet, advancements in imaging technology have allowed the field of plastic surgery to undergo a significant evolution so doctors and patients can better determine the results of a procedure.

The future of plastic surgery: How artificial intelligence is revolutionizing aspects of the specialty

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Friday, September 1, 2023

As plastic surgery's popularity continues to grow, innovative technologies – including artificial intelligence (AI) – are increasingly intersecting with this medical discipline.

Maximizing your glow: Ideas for embracing the patient journey

Ariel Frankeny | Freelance Writer Thursday, August 31, 2023

Proper planning for your plastic surgery recovery is critical to maximize your results. Start implementing healthy lifestyle choices ahead of time, prepare your space and practice mindfulness to keep yourself centered throughout the recovery process. You can maximize your glow and results by giving your body the time and space to heal fully.

Mindful beauty: Nurturing mental health while pursuing cosmetic surgery

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Tuesday, August 29, 2023

In our fast-paced digital age, the constant bombardment of seemingly flawless images on social media platforms can shape perceptions of what is considered beautiful. It has become crucial, now more than ever, to understand and maintain mental well-being when considering or undergoing cosmetic procedures.

Road to recovery: Patience in practice after plastic surgery

Ariel Frankeny | Freelance Writer Monday, August 28, 2023

Rest and recovery are essential to maximize your plastic surgery results. Many patients tend to focus only on the procedure, but healing is just as critical to achieving the goals you desire. This means giving your body ample time to heal by limiting physical activity, undergoing scar treatment and taking enough time off work.

Change of heart? Reversing your plastic surgery results

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Thursday, August 24, 2023

Social media is abuzz with celebrities and influencers dissolving their facial filler and shrinking their breasts and buttocks, signaling a shift in a beauty aesthetic of the recent past where inflated body parts garnered views, likes and shares on social media and drove demand for plastic surgery.

Two procedures in one? Why patients are opting to combine plastic surgery procedures when going under the knife

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Wednesday, August 23, 2023

A combination procedure might be right for you if you're looking into plastic surgery and have a couple of things you want to address.

Information overload: Tips for researching plastic surgery procedures online

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Tuesday, August 22, 2023

Navigating the maze of online information about plastic surgery can undoubtedly be a daunting task. And while starting your research online is an acceptable first step, it should always be followed by a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Securing your investment: Plastic surgery as a catalyst for lifestyle change

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Friday, August 11, 2023

In the contemporary world, plastic surgery has become more than a quest for aesthetic enhancement – it's evolved into a catalyst for individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles, sparking changes that can impact their overall well-being.

Kylie Jenner shares her breast augmentation journey: Implications for younger audiences and choosing to reverse a procedure

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Wednesday, August 9, 2023

Beauty mogul and reality TV star Kylie Jenner recently shared on "The Kardashians" that she had undergone breast augmentation at the age of 19 and that she also has some regrets about it.

Listening to experience: The importance of patient reviews in plastic surgery research

Ariel Frankeny | Freelance Writer Tuesday, August 8, 2023

From searching for before and after photos to reading surgeon reviews to simply looking at a practice's social media, there are plenty of places to check when doing your due diligence. But with the ease of access to information in this new digital era comes room for error and misinformation.

Inside a luxury aftercare facility with a plastic surgery patient who stayed at one

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Monday, August 7, 2023

Every plastic surgery patient knows that the most intense part of your recovery starts when you wake up from anesthesia and continues for several days after surgery. From those first groggy moments, it's clear that you need help – and sometimes plenty of it.

Embracing change: The most effective cosmetic procedures to address midlife beauty concerns

Ariel Frankeny | Freelance Writer Wednesday, August 2, 2023

If there's one thing we can't escape in life, it's the process of growing older. While we gain wisdom and experience as we journey through life, our faces and bodies will also begin to show the effects of aging.

Your consultation checklist: Essential questions to ask before your plastic surgery procedure

Ariel Frankeny | Freelance Writer Friday, July 28, 2023

For those patients who are ready to take the plunge into a procedure, it can be confusing to determine where to start. Where should you look for information about the procedure and potential surgeons? Where should you not look for information? What questions should you ask during a consultation?

Unmasking truth from myth: Debunking common misconceptions about plastic surgery

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Monday, July 24, 2023

While the world has come a long way in understanding and accepting plastic surgery, misconceptions still linger. From its affordability to its scope and results, misinformation continues to stigmatize the field of plastic surgery.

Decoding plastic surgery on social media: A guide to reliable research in the digital age

Ariel Frankeny | Freelance Writer Tuesday, July 18, 2023

In this day and age, there's no doubt about it – social media is king. This unique digital platform has opened a new universe of possibilities, allowing us to connect with others worldwide instantly and access a wealth of knowledge at our fingertips.

Inner beauty meets outer confidence: The connection between mental health and cosmetic procedures for young women

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Wednesday, July 5, 2023

As it grows in popularity, plastic surgery is becoming more widely accepted by the public. But with its close ties to body image and media, many question its impact on one's mental well-being – especially for young women.

Navigating social media's influence on plastic surgery decisions

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Thursday, June 29, 2023

When we talk about plastic surgery, its procedures and considerations, it's nearly impossible to gloss over the impact that social media has on it. From "inspo pictures" to Facebook groups, social media has become a source of both education and misinformation.

Redefining tradition: A new perspective on aging

Ariel Frankeny | Freelance Writer Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Often, the conversations of age and plastic surgery go hand-in-hand as plastic surgery is one tried-and-true method of aging gracefully. And while traditional ideas around using plastic surgery to counteract aging focused on aesthetics, modern interpretations take a more holistic approach, considering the individual's health and wellbeing to counteract aging.

Embracing diversity in plastic surgery: How plastic surgery is evolving to serve the needs of all patients

Ariel Frankeny | Freelance Writer Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Plastic surgery is often characterized as innovative and ready to embrace change in healthcare and the world beyond. Known for inventing technologies, adopting better techniques and embracing new ideas, plastic surgeons are advancing into a much-needed focus area to better serve patients – diversity, belonging and inclusion.

Showing our Pride: Supporting the LGBTQIA+ community in their plastic surgery journeys

Kayla Peterson | Freelance Writer Thursday, June 15, 2023

Among the many diverse groups plastic surgeons serve, the LGBTQIA+ community holds a distinct position, having contributed unique experiences that are invaluable in refining the specialty of plastic surgery and shaping healthcare at large.

From consultation to follow-up: Embracing telehealth in the plastic surgery journey

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Monday, June 12, 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic drove more people to telemedicine for their plastic surgery journey than ever before. From initial consultation to postoperative care, video conferencing with plastic surgeons is the new normal – and it's here to stay.

How millennials getting plastic surgery is testing the hands of time

Madison Freeman | ASPS Staff Friday, May 5, 2023

In the age of social media and celebrity plastic surgery, what was once taboo is now all the rage and millennials are responding in record numbers.

What's in a name? A focus on suffixes in plastic surgery

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Thursday, April 27, 2023

Researching a plastic surgeon's qualifications and credentials before choosing them for a procedure is essential. But if you've ever glanced at a plastic surgeon's name and found yourself bewildered by the letters following it, you're certainly not alone.

The role of plastic surgery in sports

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Tuesday, April 25, 2023

In the high-stakes world of professional sports, where victory and defeat often lie in the tiniest margins, plastic surgeons have emerged as unsung heroes behind the scenes. Their role is increasingly vital, blending art, science and athleticism to redefine what's possible on the playing field.

The role diet and nutrition play in recovery from plastic surgery

Madison Freeman | ASPS Staff Tuesday, April 18, 2023

It's a safe assumption that the outcome of surgery relies a great deal on the surgeon's expertise. And while their skills are no doubt critical, your lifestyle choices – including diet, vitamin intake and exercise habits - also play a significant role in influencing your results.

For patients seeking combination procedures, time is precious

Madison Freeman | ASPS Staff Friday, April 7, 2023

There's no doubt about it – time is precious. For working professionals, moms – and anyone else who lives a busy life – the demands on their time are often a barrier to any thought of having plastic surgery. Combining multiple surgeries into a single-stage procedure is an attractive alternative for many patients.

In a field where the patient demographic is dominated by women, why are most plastic surgeons men?

Madison Freeman | ASPS Staff Friday, March 31, 2023

Women make up nearly half of medical school graduates. However, according to a 2017 study in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open, they remain underrepresented among surgical residents and surgeons.

The differences between plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery and why board certification matters

Madison Freeman | ASPS Staff Friday, March 3, 2023

Let's face it, when most people think of plastic surgery, they think of procedures like Botox and breast augmentation. And while those enhancements make up a large number of cosmetic procedures, there's much more than meets the eye when it comes to plastic surgery.

The importance of Black History Month in plastic surgery

Madison Freeman | ASPS Staff Friday, February 24, 2023

Black History Month was created as a way to focus our attention on the contributions of Black Americans in society. Its intent was not only to honor all Black people from all periods of United States history, but to provide an opportunity to celebrate the triumphs of these individuals throughout time.

Trends are fleeting: What does that mean for plastic surgery?

Madison Freeman | ASPS Staff Tuesday, February 14, 2023

With phrases like #plasticsurgery having more than 16 billion views on TikTok, you can bet that hot topics like this aren't going to disappear from social media anytime soon. But what happens when more serious subjects like plastic surgery become a topic of conversation on social media?

All of your common Botox questions answered

Madison Freeman | ASPS Staff Thursday, February 9, 2023

Botox has been said to turn back the hands of time, but what else is important to know about this popular minimally invasive procedure?

Plastic surgery trends for 2023, according to plastic surgeons

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Tuesday, January 31, 2023

"People are influenced by influencers. And I think we're seeing the more subtle, understated aesthetic in many celebrities," said ASPS President Gregory Greco, DO, FACS.

How plastic surgery can be part of your New Year's resolution

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Wednesday, January 25, 2023

Thousands of people plan to shed the pounds they gained during the COVID-19 pandemic and the holiday season, and cap off their weight loss journey with plastic surgery to contour their bodies, augment their breasts or remove excess skin.

Medical tourism: What you need to know about traveling for plastic surgery

Madison Freeman | ASPS Staff Friday, January 13, 2023

If you’ve paid attention at all to plastic surgery in the media, you are probably familiar with the idea of medical tourism. While you may think of medical tourism purely as flying to another country for procedures, that’s just not the case.

Misconceptions in plastic surgery: What are the facts?

Madison Freeman | ASPS Staff Friday, December 30, 2022

In 2020 alone, more than 20 million people received some sort of plastic surgery, according to the 2020 statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. As more and more people get plastic surgery, it’s important now more than ever before to get the facts straight.

Five reasons you maybe shouldn't get plastic surgery – at least not yet

Madison Freeman | ASPS Staff Monday, November 14, 2022

The basics for who is a good candidate for plastic surgery may be old news. Characteristics like being a nonsmoker, committing to leading a healthy lifestyle post-surgery and having a stable weight are tried and true features for people wanting to get plastic surgery.

Patients combine procedures for shorter recovery times and longer-lasting results

Daisy Brumby | Freelance Writer Tuesday, September 27, 2022

In the Inaugural ASPS Insights and Trends Report, 80 percent of survey respondents said their patients sought combination procedures for longer-lasting results and shorter recovery times.

How do diet and smoking affect plastic surgery recovery?

Kaitlin Clark | Freelance Writer Tuesday, September 20, 2022

Without following your surgeon's aftercare instructions, you can – at minimum – expect a longer and more uncomfortable road to recovery. And in the worst-case scenarios, serious, irreversible side effects, including necrosis, can occur.

'I'm going back – I need to see if I can help': ASPS member recounts Highland Park horror

Paul Snyder | Managing Editor Thursday, July 7, 2022

At first, ASPS member Loren Schechter, MD, thought kids were setting off fireworks. Then he noticed the tree he was standing under was shaking. Then he smelled the gun powder.

Taking a celeb photo to your plastic surgeon is a slippery slope – here's why

Kaitlin Clark | Freelance Writer Wednesday, June 22, 2022

It would be easy to think that a person who walks into a plastic surgeon's office with a picture of Kim Kardashian, asking for one of her specific features is the best kind patient – confident, assured and knows exactly what they want. But in reality, those filtered snaps of overexposed celebrities often blur the line between fantasy and reality when it comes to beauty and plastic surgery.

Celebs are more transparent than ever about plastic surgery, but is it always helpful?

Kaitlin Clark | Freelance Writer Tuesday, April 19, 2022

The celebrity plastic surgery have they or haven't they game is tired, and inherently implies some kind of plastic surgery shaming, which we all can agree needs to end.

Nine tips from a plastic surgeon and patient for a smoother recovery

Kaitlin Clark | Freelance Writer Monday, December 27, 2021

There's no way around it: Recovery from plastic surgery is uncomfortable at best. Discomfort during the acute recovery phase, meaning the first few days post-op, should be expected, but pain should not be – especially not now, given all the advancements in technology and technique.