04 Jan Cheers to the season: Why winter is the most popular for procedures
Cheers to the season: Why winter is the most popular for procedures
Winter is a prevalent time of year to have cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. According to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), treatments and surgeries increase by approximately 25 percent from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. Why this season and what are people having done?
Winter inspirations
The holiday season typically means more family reunions, office parties, and festive get-togethers. People want to look their best for these occasions. For major surgery, plan enough time for recovery and for the full results to be apparent. If you are looking for subtle changes, treatments can be scheduled weeks or even days before an event.
This time of year, while joyful and fun, can also present additional stress. Some patients report that it is essential to schedule “me time” and pampering treatments to maintain sanity.
Facial plastic surgeons have also seen an increase in gift giving over the winter months. Whether in a dollar amount or for a specific treatment, more couples—spouses, mother/daughters, friends—enjoy sharing the experience by giving the gift of enhancement as a gift to each other. Some patients place a significant importance on the new year and find the boost in self-confidence and rejuvenated appearance as the perfect way to begin the new year.
Winter practicality
The winter months offer some practical reasons for having procedures. Many find it easier to take extended time away from work over the holidays. And during recuperation, staying indoors is not such a chore when the weather isn’t warm. Also, with several layers of clothing, hats, and scarves, it is easier to camouflage your recovery in cooler temperatures.
If you would prefer to not recover over the major holidays, there are also two, long holiday weekends that may be convenient, Martin Luther King Day and Presidents’ Day.
Winter trends
Popular noninvasive treatments over the winter include neurotoxins (Botox, Xeomin, Dysport), dermal fillers, and photorejuvenation. Patients also combine these treatments with highly individualized therapies; 66 percent of AAFPRS surgeons report noninvasive treatment combinations as a top trend. While the results are immediate and there is no downtime, changes are not as comprehensive and not permanent.
Common surgeries over the winter include facelift, nose surgery, and eyelid surgery. Recovery can take one to three weeks and then an extended period before you see the final results, depending on the extent of the procedure. Follow your facial plastic surgeon’s postoperative instructions for optimal healing; this may include no strenuous activity, avoiding sun exposure, and plenty of rest and relaxation.
What are you waiting for? ‘Tis the season to plan for a rejuvenated you, or for the ones you love. Make a consultation appointment today to discuss your options with Dr. Edds. Cheers to the season!