New Stats Show What’s Been Fueling the Latest Plastic Surgery Trends

A new report from the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) reveals the biggest trends shaping facial plastic surgery. From “Ozempic Face” to younger facelift patients and a rise in male treatments, here’s what’s behind the cosmetic treatments and surgery demands in the last year.

‘Ozempic Face’ and the Rise of Fat Grafting

Weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are making a major impact beyond the scale. While effective at reducing body fat, these drugs also cause noticeable facial volume loss, leaving some patients with a gaunt or sagging appearance.

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“While these drugs are great for weight loss, they often cause sagging skin and facial hollowness,” says Dr. Patrick Byrne, president of the AAFPRS. “That’s why we’re seeing an increase in fat grafting and other treatments to bring back volume.”

According to the report, the number of fat grafting procedures increased by 50 percent last year as patients sought to restore fullness. Nonsurgical options, including fillers and skin-tightening treatments, are also gaining popularity as alternatives to surgical intervention.

Facelifts Are Getting Younger

Facelifts are no longer just for those in their 60s and beyond. The AAFPRS reports that more people in their late 30s and 40s are opting for the procedure to prevent signs of aging before becoming more noticeable. In fact, the number of facelift patients between 35 and 55 has climbed from 26 percent to 32 percent in recent years. 

Men Are Getting More Work Done

Men are also joining the cosmetic treatment conversation like never before. According to the report, 92 percent of surgeons say they now treat male patients, with procedures like eyelid surgery, nose jobs and facelifts leading the way. “Botox has become one of the most popular treatments for men who want to look refreshed but not ‘done,’” says Dr. Byrne. Hair transplants are also a major plastic surgery trend, as men look to maintain a youthful appearance.

Menopause and Effect

More women in their 40s and 50s are looking for treatments to address changes caused by menopause, like thinning skin and facial sagging. The report found that nearly 30 percent of surgeons say their patients reference menopause-related concerns when seeking treatment. “Soft tissue fillers and biostimulatory fillers can help replace collagen and improve skin texture,” Dr. Byrne notes. This shift reflects a new approach to aging where women embrace options that make them feel confident at every stage of life.

What’s Next: Regenerative Treatments

Looking ahead, regenerative medicine—like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and exosome-based treatments—is set to change the industry. More than half of surgeons predict these innovative therapies will be the next big thing in aesthetics. “Exosomes and PRP are helping patients rejuvenate their skin from the inside out,” says Dr. Byrne. “We expect to see more treatments focused on long-term skin health.”

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