The Five Most Common Cosmetic Surgical Procedures Used in the U.S.

Hundreds of thousands of Americans undergo cosmetic surgery every year, for a variety of reasons. The most popular techniques are listed here in the order of patronage.

Breast Surgery
This is the most popular cosmetic surgical technique in the U.S., with more than 300,000 such procedures reported in 2012 alone. A breast lift, in which tissue is removed and tightened, will be used to eliminate drooping or sagging that often occurs after pregnancy. Breast augmentation involves the insertion, usually into the area around the nipples or under the arms, of implants filled with either silicone or a saline solution.

Liposuction
Also known as lipoplasty, this popular cosmetic procedure involves the removal of fat deposits by literally sucking them from a person’s body. The surgeon will accomplish this by inserting a small tube, known as a cannula, into the targeted area, with the other end attached to a vacuum device. Liposuction can be used almost anywhere on the body, although it is normally employed to reduce fat in the areas of the abdomen, thighs and hips.

Abdominoplasty
More commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, this procedure targets excess fat deposits that protrude in the most obvious and obnoxious ways above the belt. After the fat is surgically removed, the remaining skin is stretched over the abdominal area, resulting in a flatter and healthier appearance.

Blepharoplasty
This technique is designed to reshape the eyelids, which with age or due to genetics or excessive sun exposure may begin to sag or take on a puffy appearance. Eyelid surgery involves the removal of fat or excessive skin through small incisions, with the effect of rejuvenating the appearance of the entire eye.

Rhinoplasty
This is simply a nose fix. Although this procedure can be used to remove blockages that may hamper a person’s breathing, the nose is usually reduced, or occasionally enlarged, to enhance its general appearance. The shaping is accomplished through the surgical removal of tissue and bone and the altering of the tip of the nose.

The vast majority of these cosmetic procedures are performed on women, but even men will turn to them to improve their health and allow them to look their best.