Millennials are hoping to prevent aging by focusing on “prejuvenation,” such as injectables - a trend spurred by social media and celebrities.
A reported 64% of member facial plastic surgeons reported an increase in cosmetic surgery or injectable treatments in the under 30 crowd, according to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS). They are using these treatments as a preventative measure; facial muscles that cause wrinkles can be trained to move less, thus stopping wrinkles before they start, according to AAFPRS.
“We’re seeing an uptick in the popularity of injections like Botox, Xeomin and Dysport in millennials," said Dr. Edwin Williams, AAFPRS president and facial plastic surgeon. "Social media makes young patients increasingly aware of their lines and wrinkles, and thanks to celebrities and the internet, they know that there are ways to correct it and maintain their youthful skin," Williams said.
AAFPRS members agreed that the biggest trend for the future of facial plastic surgery is more emphasis on early maintenance starting in the 20s and 30s to avoid larger procedures and delay the need for cosmetic surgery down the road.
According to Williams, the prevalence of non-invasive procedures like lasers, peels and injections are making it even more appealing for young people to dip their toe into aesthetic enhancements. Also, “the commoditization of cosmetic procedures, both surgical and especially non-invasive, is increasing due to Groupon and other daily deal aggregators as well as the prevalence of plastic surgery on TV,” said Williams.
Neuromodulator injections such as Botox, Xeomin and Dysport are the top treatments requested at our office with fillers and microneedling coming in just behind.