The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) released its 2020 member survey results, revealing that over the past few years, use of non-invasive procedures to delay the signs of aging have been steadily on the rise. However, the COVID-19 pandemic created a rise in surgical demand not seen in recent years. Despite the fact that many non-essential surgeries and aesthetic services were put on hold during the pandemic, AAFPRS members report that demand is now higher than ever. In fact, 70 percent of AAFPRS surgeons report an increase in bookings and treatments over the course of the pandemic.
The AAFPRS members who experienced higher patient volume almost unanimously (96 percent) indicate that it is because men and women have more time and flexibility to recover from treatments due to social distancing and the benefits of working from home. Rhinoplasty (78 percent), facelifts (69 percent), eye lifts (65 percent), and neck lifts/treatments (58 percent) have increased most notably, likely due to more time spent on digital devices and an unprecedented virtual lifestyle. For the first time in years, AAFPRS members report non-surgical treatment demand decreasing in 2020. The average amount of minimally invasive procedures was down by 9 percent compared to 2019, driven by a decline in skin treatments (down 29 percent) and fillers (down 8 percent).
Many AAFPRS members (83 percent of respondents) believe that an increase in video conferencing is a major contributing factor in changing behaviors, while patients having more disposable income due to not spending it elsewhere is a strong second (64 percent). “These factors, combined with masks, less travel, and people being able to work from home without missing a beat in their career has led to a marked increase in surgical procedures,” says Paul J. Carniol, M.D., president of AAFPRS. “Last year presented completely uncharted territory for our industry, and these statistics point to a strong desire to look and feel confident that has not wavered despite major lifestyle changes and obstacles.”
For more medical spa news, check out the March/April issue of American Spa.
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