The American Society of Plastic Surgeons lists the following as the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures of 2007: breast augmentation (347,500), liposuction (302,000), nose reshaping (285,000), eyelid surgery (241,000), and tummy tuck (148,000). Each of these procedures has a long history, and recent advancements have made each safer and more effective than ever before.

Advancements to three of the most popular types of surgical cosmetic procedures include the following:

Breast Augmentation

Both types of breast implants (saline and silicone) were introduced in the 1960s. Since that time, each type has undergone improvements, particularly silicone. For example, high-cohesive silicone gel is now available for women. This gel is thicker than other types of silicone, earning implants filled with high-cohesive silicone the name “gummy bear” implants. Such implants are safer than previous generations of silicone implants, in part because they greatly reduce the possibility of silicone migration, or leakage into the body.

Liposuction

Modern forms of liposuction have been around since the 1980s; however, the procedure has changed dramatically over time. The primary advancement in liposuction has been in the use of fluid injections. These injections have eliminated the need for general anesthetic in most cases, and they (along with other improvements) have made the procedure less risky. Now, men and women tend to have more fat cells removed with less discomfort when advanced liposuction techniques are used.

Nose Reshaping

Often called rhinoplasty, nose surgery has undergone a series of advancements over the past century. Generally, candidates for nose surgery now have a wide variety of reshaping options available to them. Advancements such as these have made rhinoplasty more affordable for greater numbers of people.

Choosing Cosmetic Surgery

Regardless of which cosmetic surgery you are interested in, keep in mind that surgeons, anesthesiologists, and others are continually improving surgical methods and expanding the options available to clients. That being said, each procedure comes with its own risks and special considerations, so exercise care and always work in consultation with a certified plastic surgeon when making decisions about your care.