Trends in Cosmetic Facial Plastic Surgery Post COVID-19 Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Otolaryngology
• Aesthetic Medicine

Background:

• Elective facial plastic surgery (FPS) cases have risen post-COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
• A comparison of cosmetic FPS surgical volumes between 2018 (pre-pandemic) and 2021 was conducted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the surgical volume of cosmetic facial plastic surgery (FPS) procedures in 2018 versus 2021.
• To identify demographic and procedural trends in FPS before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review at a tertiary academic medical center and community practice.
• Analysis of patient demographics, surgery dates, and specific procedures (blepharoplasty, septorhinoplasty, rhytidectomy, brow lift).

Main Results:

• A total of 139 patients were analyzed (58 in 2018, 81 in 2021).
• Significant increase in FPS for patients under 30 (13.6% rise, P=0.02).
• Septorhinoplasty volume increased by 20.5% (P=0.01), with 2021 showing 144% higher odds than 2018. Rhytidectomy volume significantly decreased (OR=0.33).

Conclusions:

• The COVID-19 pandemic correlated with a rise in FPS among individuals under 30, particularly septorhinoplasty.
• Potential contributing factors include increased disposable income, "Zoom dysmorphia," and masked recovery.
• The precise reasons for the observed increase in specific cosmetic procedures require further investigation.