The findings from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons‘ (ASPS) 2024 Procedural Statistics Report provide valuable insights that directly impact dermatology aesthetic practices. Here’s a recap of key trends and their potential future impacts:
Steady Growth in Cosmetic Procedures
With surgical procedures rising by 1% and minimally invasive options increasing by 3%, it’s clear that patients prioritize their aesthetic health regardless of economic circumstances. Dermatology practices should anticipate sustained interest from patients in aesthetic treatments and continue to position themselves as accessible and expert providers in this market.
Emergence of “Ozempic Makeovers”
The report noted that more than 837,000 patients sought procedures post-weight loss from GLP-1 agonists. For dermatology practices, this signifies an opportunity to integrate weight management discussions into aesthetic consultations as skin laxity and other changes may necessitate dermatological interventions. Practices can develop targeted educational resources to guide patients through options to address changes in skin texture and tone resulting from weight loss.
Younger Patients Seeking Facelifts
The rise in facelift procedures among patients in their 30s and 40s presents a unique opportunity for dermatologists to position themselves as preventative care specialists. Offering consultations focused on early intervention and utilizing techniques that promote subtle enhancements will allow practices to attract younger patients who desire to maintain a youthful appearance.
“Millennials are entering their prime earning years and prioritizing appearance as part of total wellness,” said Jacquiline Habashy, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist in Beverly Hills, Calif. “Dermatology practices that adapt their messaging and treatment planning to engage this population, particularly with education around prevention, collagen stimulation, and subtle enhancement, will be best positioned to lead in this next decade of aesthetic growth.”
Shift to Regenerative Injectables
The increasing interest in biostimulatory injectables suggests that patients are leaning towards treatments that promote long-term skin health over short-term volume. Dermatologists should consider incorporating these newer injectables into their practices and provide training for staff to educate patients on the benefits of collagen stimulation, which aligns well with a focus on skin health and longevity.
Growing Male Patient Demographic
With men accounting for 7% of cosmetic surgeries—an increase from previous years—there is a clear shift in male attitudes towards aesthetic procedures. This creates an opportunity for dermatology practices to market aesthetic services tailored to men, potentially including specialized treatment plans and campaigns that resonate with male patients seeking enhancements with minimal downtime.
“Men’s growing interest in cosmetic procedures means there’s an entirely untapped demographic for aesthetic practices,” said Terrence Keaney, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist in Arlington, Va. “Practices that cater to this demographic by marketing subtle, yet impactful procedures with minimal downtime will retain their competitiveness and diversify their patient base.”
“The ASPS 2024 data confirms what we’ve seen firsthand in our practice—male patients are increasingly proactive and educated about their aesthetic health,” said New York City plastic surgeon Douglas S. Steinbrech, MD. “In addition, younger patients pursuing early facelifts and the rise of regenerative injectables point to a future where personalization and prevention take center stage. At the intersection of innovation and care, we as providers must adapt our offerings and messaging to empower patients through every stage of their aesthetic journey.”
Conclusion
The ASPS 2024 report underscores significant trends that affect dermatology aesthetic practices. By adapting to these trends—such as integrating weight management discussions, offering preventive care services, embracing regenerative treatments, and engaging male patients—dermatologists can enhance their service offerings and meet the evolving needs of their patient populations. These insights can guide marketing and communication strategies to attract and retain patients in an increasingly competitive environment.
