Plastic surgery continues to evolve as millions of people worldwide seek ways to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. The field encompasses both surgical and non-surgical procedures designed to address aesthetic concerns ranging from facial rejuvenation to body contouring.
The most popular plastic surgery procedures in 2025 include liposuction, breast augmentation, tummy tuck, breast lift, and blepharoplasty, with liposuction maintaining its position as the top requested procedure for the third consecutive year. These procedures reflect a growing trend toward both traditional surgical methods and innovative techniques that offer natural-looking results with reduced recovery times.
Key Statistics:
- Total cosmetic surgical procedures: 1,585,878 (1% increase from 2023)
- Total minimally invasive procedures: 28,243,407 (1.5% increase from 2023)
- Reconstructive procedures: 1,048,534 (2% increase from 2023)
Most Popular Plastic Surgery PROCEDURES
Overview:
- Liposuction remains the most popular plastic surgery procedure
- Current trends favor natural-looking results and minimally invasive techniques over dramatic surgical transformations
- The combination of technological advances and changing social attitudes has expanded options for both surgical and non-surgical aesthetic treatments
| Procedure Type | Number of Cases (2024) |
|---|---|
| Liposuction | 349,728 |
| Breast augmentation | 306,196 |
| Tummy tuck | 171,064 |
| Breast lift | 153,616 |
| Eyelid surgery | 120,755 |
*All of the data gathered for this list was taken from American Society of Plastic Surgery
1. LIPOSUCTION
- 2024 Volume: 349,728 procedures (1% increase from 2023)
- Cost Range: $3,000 – $7,500+
- Market Position: Most popular cosmetic surgery procedure for multiple consecutive years
Liposuction consistently ranks as the world’s most popular plastic surgery procedure. Data shows 1.9 million liposuction procedures were performed globally, surpassing breast augmentation in frequency with around 15% of operations happening in the US.
Liposuction 360 has emerged as a particularly sought-after variation in 2025. This technique addresses multiple areas around the midsection simultaneously, including the abdomen, flanks, back, and waist.
The procedure removes excess fat deposits from targeted body areas through suction techniques. Common treatment areas include abdomen, thighs, arms, and flanks.
Popular liposuction techniques: Tumescent liposuction, Ultrasound-assisted liposuction and Laser-assisted liposuction.
Body contouring procedures often combine liposuction with other techniques for comprehensive results. The surgery addresses stubborn fat deposits that resist diet and exercise efforts.
Recovery typically requires 2-4 weeks with compression garments worn continuously. Patients see initial results within weeks, with final contouring visible after several months as swelling subsides.
2. BREAST AUGMENTATION
- 2024 Volume: 306,196 procedures (1% increase from 2023)
- Cost Range: $5,000 – $12,000+
- Demographics: 37% of patients are ages 30-39
Breast augmentation remains one of the most requested plastic surgery procedures globally with more than 1.5 million cosmetic surgical procedures completed in 2023. The surgery involves placing breast implants to increase volume and enhance breast shape.
Modern breast implant technology offers improved natural appearance and feel. Patients increasingly choose lower-volume implants for proportional results rather than dramatic size increases.
Common implant types include: Silicone gel implants, Saline implants and Textured or smooth surfaces.
The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours under general anesthesia. Recovery involves 4-6 weeks of limited activity and gradual return to normal routines.
Patients select breast augmentation for various reasons including volume restoration after pregnancy, asymmetry correction, or personal aesthetic preferences. Consultation with board-certified surgeons ensures proper implant selection and realistic expectations.
3. TUMMY TUCK
- 2024 Volume: 171,064 procedures (1% increase from 2023)
- Cost Range: $8,000 – $15,000+
- Trend: Popular as part of “mommy makeover” and post-GLP-1 weight loss procedures
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, consistently ranks among the top five most popular cosmetic surgery procedures. The procedure experienced significant growth, with over 170,000 patients undergoing the surgery in 2023.
Abdominoplasty removes excess abdominal skin and tightens underlying muscles to create a flatter, more toned midsection. The procedure addresses loose skin after pregnancy or significant weight loss and repairs diastasis recti, where abdominal muscles separate.
Surgeons make an incision from hip to hip, often below the bikini line. They pull the skin taut, remove excess tissue, and repair separated muscles if necessary. The result provides a firmer abdominal profile.
Recovery typically includes: Overnight hospital stay, Two weeks off work and Full activity resumption after 4-6 weeks.
The procedure works best for patients with loose abdominal skin rather than those seeking fat removal alone. Tummy tucks can be combined with liposuction for comprehensive body contouring results.
4. BREAST LIFT
- 2024 Volume: 153,616 procedures (0% change from 2023)
- Cost Range: $6,500 – $12,000+
- Demographics: Around 75% of breast lifts are performed on women over 35.
Breast lift surgery, known as mastopexy, ranks among the most popular plastic surgery procedures. The procedure elevates and reshapes breasts while maintaining their natural size.
Breast lift surgery repositions sagging breast tissue to a higher, more youthful position without changing breast size significantly. The procedure removes excess skin and reshapes breast contours.
Common techniques include: (1)Anchor incision: Around areola, vertical down, and along breast crease (2) Lollipop incision: Around areola and vertical down (3) Donut incision: Around areola only
Recovery involves wearing a surgical bra for several weeks and avoiding heavy lifting. Most patients return to work within one to two weeks, depending on their job requirements.
5. EYELID SURGERY
- 2024 Volume: 120,755 procedures (0% change from 2023)
- 2022 Average Surgeon Fee: $3,387
- Demographics: 56% of patients are ages 55-69
Eyelid surgery, known as blepharoplasty, has become the most performed cosmetic surgical procedure globally according to 2024 statistics from the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. The procedure surpassed liposuction and breast augmentation with over 2.1 million procedures performed worldwide.
Blepharoplasty addresses aging signs around the eyes by removing excess skin and fat. The procedure targets both upper and lower eyelids for refreshed appearance.
Upper eyelid surgery removes drooping skin that can impair vision. Lower eyelid procedures eliminate under-eye bags and tighten loose skin.
Blepharoplasty benefits include: Improved vision from upper lid correction, Reduced tired appearance and Smoother eye contours.
The surgery typically requires 1-3 hours depending on areas treated. Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia may be used.
Recovery involves 1-2 weeks of swelling and bruising. Patients return to work within 7-10 days with makeup covering residual discoloration. Final results become apparent after several months.
Most Popular MINIMALLY INVASIVE PROCEDURES
Overview:
- Minimally invasive procedures offer effective aesthetic results with significantly less downtime and lower risks than traditional surgery
- Neuromodulator injections and dermal fillers dominate the market with growth rates exceeding 70% annually
- These treatments provide natural-looking improvements through various technologies including injectables, energy-based devices, and regenerative therapies
*Plastic Surgery Statistics from American Society of Plastic Surgery
| Procedure Type | Number of Cases (2024) |
|---|---|
| Neuromodulator injections | 9,883,711 |
| Hyaluronic acid fillers | 5,331,426 |
| Skin resurfacing | 3,703,305 |
| Laser skin resurfacing | 3,112,056 |
| Lip augmentation | 3,112,056 |
1. NEUROMODULATOR INJECTIONS (BOTOX®)
- 2024 Volume: 9,883,711 procedures (4% increase from 2023)
- 2022 Average Fee: $326 per treatment
- Market Share: Most popular minimally invasive procedure
Neuromodulator injections represent the most popular cosmetic procedure performed in the United States. These treatments experienced a 4% increase year over year, maintaining their top position in the minimally invasive category.
Neuromodulator injections remain the most popular minimally invasive procedure in plastic surgery. Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau work by preventing facial muscles from contracting.
These treatments effectively smooth wrinkles including: Crow’s feet around the eyes, Frown lines between the eyebrows and Forehead lines from facial expressions.
The average cost for neuromodulator injections is $466, making them highly accessible to patients.
2. HYALURONIC ACID FILLERS
- 2024 Volume: 5,331,426 procedures (1% increase from 2023)
- 2022 Average Fee: $700 per treatment
- Demographics: 50% of patients are ages 40-54
Hyaluronic acid fillers rank as the second most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedure worldwide.
The popularity stems from their non-permanent yet long-lasting results. Patients experience immediate volume restoration with minimal downtime and few side effects.
Popular brands include:
- Juvéderm (Ultra, Ultra Plus, Voluma, Volbella, Vollure), Restylane (Lyft, Silk, original formula), Belotero and RHA series
Hyaluronic acid fillers experienced a 70% increase in demand since 2019. These dermal fillers add volume to areas like cheeks, lips, and temples. The average cost is $684 per treatment.
Lip augmentation with fillers emerged as one of the top five minimally invasive treatments for the first time in 2022. Results typically last 6-18 months depending on the product and treatment area.
3. SKIN RESURFACING
- 2024 Volume: 3,703,305 procedures (6% increase from 2023)
- 2022 Average Fee: $741 per treatment
- Growth: Significant year-over-year increase
Skin resurfacing procedures remove damaged skin layers to promote new tissue growth. These treatments address wrinkles, acne scars, age spots, and uneven skin texture.
Common Methods:
- Laser skin resurfacing – Uses focused light beams to remove skin layers, Chemical peels – Apply acids to dissolve damaged skin, Dermabrasion – Mechanically sands away skin surface and Microdermabrasion – Gentle exfoliation using fine crystals
Laser treatments have gained significant popularity due to technological advances. New laser systems provide faster healing times with reduced discomfort compared to traditional methods.
Chemical peels range from light to deep treatments. Light peels require minimal downtime while deep peels provide more dramatic results but need longer recovery periods.
Peel depths include: Light peels: Minimal downtime, subtle improvements, Medium peels: Moderate recovery, noticeable results amd Deep peels: Extensive healing, dramatic transformation
4. LASER SKIN TREATMENTS
- 2024 Volume: 3,112,056 procedures (0% change from 2023)
- Includes: Hair removal, IPL, tattoo removal, vein treatments
- Demographics: Large portion of women are in their 20s-30s
Laser skin resurfacing addresses skin texture, tone, and aging signs through advanced technology. The average cost is $1,201, reflecting the expertise and equipment required for treatment.
This procedure treats multiple concerns: Sun damage and age spots, Fine lines and wrinkles, Acne scars and skin irregularities and Uneven skin tone and texture.
Different laser types target specific skin issues. Ablative lasers remove skin layers for dramatic results, while non-ablative options provide gentler treatment with minimal downtime.
Recovery varies from days to weeks depending on laser intensity. Patients see continued improvement for months as collagen production increases.
5. LIP AUGMENTATION
- 2024 Volume: 1,449,565 procedures (1% increase from 2023)
- HA Filler Lip Augmentation: 1,589,502 procedures (new category in 2024)
- Trend: Remained in top 5 since tracking began in 2022
Lip augmentation has maintained its position among the top five minimally invasive procedures since tracking began in 2022. The procedure enhances lip size, shape, and volume through various methods.
Hyaluronic acid fillers represent the most popular approach. These non-surgical injections provide temporary results lasting 6-12 months while moisturizing the lips naturally.
Fat transfer procedures offer longer-lasting results by using the patient’s own fat tissue. This method provides a more permanent solution compared to temporary fillers.
Lip implants deliver the most durable enhancement option. These surgical implants create lasting volume and shape improvements for patients seeking permanent results.
The procedure addresses multiple aesthetic concerns including thin lips, age-related volume loss, asymmetry, and poorly defined lip borders. Modern techniques focus on natural enhancement rather than overdone appearances.
Popular lip augmentation approaches include: Hyaluronic acid fillers (Juvederm, Restylane), Lip flips using neuromodulators, Russian lip technique for vertical enhancement and Natural lip border definition.
Treatment typically takes 15-30 minutes in an office setting. Results appear immediately and continue improving as swelling subsides over several days.
Most Popular RECONSTRUCTIVE PROCEDURES
Overview:
- Tumor removal surgery represents the most frequently performed reconstructive procedure in the United States
- Hand surgery and breast reconstruction have shown consistent demand with modern techniques improving patient outcomes
- Reconstructive procedures focus on restoring both function and appearance rather than purely aesthetic enhancement
| Procedure Type | Number of Cases (2024) |
|---|---|
| Tumor removal | 361,798 |
| Hand surgery | 208,480 |
| Breast reconstruction | 162,579 |
| Maxillofacial | 54,747 |
| Scar revision | 54,280 |
1. TUMOR REMOVAL
- 2024 Volume: 361,798 procedures (3% increase from 2023)
- Scope: Including skin cancer removal
Tumor removal encompasses surgical excision of benign and malignant growths, with skin cancer removal representing the largest portion. In 2024, plastic surgeons performed 361,798 tumor removal procedures, representing a 3% increase from 2023 and maintaining its position as the most performed reconstructive procedure. Plastic surgeons perform these procedures to eliminate diseased tissue while preserving function and appearance.
Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma account for most skin cancer removals. Melanoma excisions require wider margins and more complex reconstruction techniques.
Common tumor removal procedures include: Mohs surgery with immediate reconstruction, wide local excision with tissue rearrangement, lymph node removal for cancer staging, and benign tumor excision with scar minimization.
2. HAND SURGERY
- 2024 Volume: 208,480 procedures (0% change from 2023)
- Includes: Carpal tunnel, arthritis, trigger finger
Hand reconstruction surgery ranks among the five most common reconstructive procedures performed annually. Surgeons completed over 207,800 hand reconstruction surgeries in 2023, demonstrating the significant demand for these procedures.
Primary conditions requiring hand reconstruction include bone fractures, tendon disorders like trigger finger, and joint osteoarthritis. Dupuytren’s contracture, carpal tunnel syndrome, and congenital anomalies such as polydactyly also necessitate surgical intervention.
The procedures aim to restore normal hand function, alleviate pain, and improve appearance. Patients benefit from enhanced ability to perform daily activities and psychological improvements from restored hand aesthetics.
Common hand surgery procedures include: Carpal tunnel release (open or endoscopic) Trigger finger release, Dupuytren’s contracture correction, Arthritis treatment and joint replacement, and Tendon repair and reconstruction.
Success rates vary significantly by procedure type. Open trigger finger release achieves a 99% success rate. Flexor tendon repair shows 92% of patients regaining good to excellent motion after one year.
3. BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
- 2024 Volume: 162,579 procedures (3% increase from 2023)
- Methods: 54% tissue expander to implant, 25% direct to implant
Breast reconstruction ranks among the most sought-after reconstructive procedures for women following mastectomy or breast cancer treatment. This surgery helps restore breast shape and size while improving quality of life and self-image.
Reconstruction approaches include: Tissue expander followed by permanent implant (most common), Direct-to-implant reconstruction, Autologous tissue flaps (DIEP, latissimus dorsi), Fat grafting for contour refinement, and Nipple and areola reconstruction.
Implant-based reconstruction requires less surgical time and shorter recovery compared to autologous methods. Tissue expanders gradually stretch the chest skin to accommodate permanent implants.
4. MAXILLOFACIAL
- 2024 Volume: 54,747 procedures (4% increase from 2023)
- Methods: treats diseases, defects, and injuries of the head, neck, face, and jaw
Maxillofacial reconstructive surgery addresses defects and injuries affecting the head, neck, face, and jaw structures. These procedures restore both function and appearance following trauma, congenital abnormalities, or disease.
Facial trauma reconstruction represents a significant portion of maxillofacial procedures. Surgeons repair complex facial fractures, reconnect severed nerves, and restore damaged soft tissues.
Jaw reconstruction corrects skeletal deformities of the maxilla and mandible. These procedures improve bite function and facial symmetry.
Common maxillofacial procedures include: Orthognathic surgery for jaw alignment, Cleft lip and palate repair, Facial trauma reconstruction, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) surgery, and Facial bone contouring.
Traumatic injury reconstruction restores facial structure following accidents or violence. Surgeons repair fractured facial bones, soft tissue damage, and dental injuries.
5. SCAR REVISION
- 2024 Volume: 54,280 procedures (4% increase from 2023)
- Areas: most popular areas are face, neck and chest
Scar revision surgery minimizes the appearance of scars to help them blend with surrounding skin tone and texture. This reconstructive procedure addresses scars from injuries, surgeries, burns, or medical conditions that may be noticeable or cause functional limitations.
Wide, raised, or discolored scars can cause physical discomfort and emotional distress. Scar revision techniques aim to make scars less noticeable and better blended with surrounding skin.
Scar revision methods include: Surgical excision and careful closure, Z-plasty or W-plasty techniques to break up scar lines, Dermabrasion or laser resurfacing, Steroid injections for raised scars, annd Skin grafts or tissue expansion for large scars.
Hypertrophic scars and keloids respond to combined treatment approaches including surgery, steroid injections, and compression therapy. These scars often require multiple treatment sessions for optimal results.
EMERGING TRENDS Growing Procedures (2024 vs 2023)
The plastic surgery landscape in 2025 reflects significant shifts toward natural-looking results and less invasive treatment options. Social media influences patient expectations while professional organizations guide industry standards.
Growth of Minimally Invasive Procedures
Minimally invasive procedures have experienced substantial growth due to reduced downtime and lower complication rates. These treatments appeal to patients seeking improvements without extensive recovery periods.
Technology advances enable more precise treatments. 3D imaging allows surgeons to plan procedures accurately and show patients expected outcomes before treatment begins.
Combination treatments have become common practice. Patients often receive multiple minimally invasive procedures during single appointments to address various concerns simultaneously.
Recovery times for these procedures typically range from days to weeks compared to months for traditional surgery. This access ibility has expanded the patient demographic to include younger individuals seeking preventive treatments.
Shift Toward Natural Aesthetics
Natural aesthetics have become the dominant preference in plastic surgery. Patients increasingly seek subtle enhancements that complement their existing features rather than dramatic transformations.
Breast augmentation procedures now favor smaller, more natural-looking implants. Fat transfer techniques have gained popularity because they provide dual benefits of body contouring and natural breast enhancement.
Popular natural enhancement techniques include: Fat grafting for facial volume restoration, Smaller breast implant sizes, Tissue-mimicking implant materials like Motiva brand, and Minimally invasive facelifts with subtle results.
The trend extends to facial procedures where patients request rhinoplasty that maintains ethnic characteristics. Facial rejuvenation focuses on preserving individual facial structure while addressing aging concerns.
Body contouring procedures emphasize natural body proportions. Liposuction techniques now target specific areas for refined silhouettes rather than dramatic size reductions.
Growth in the Use of Weight Loss Drugs – Ozempic
There has been a major increase in the use of weight-loss drugs, specifically GLP-1 weight loss medications. 837,485 patients were prescribed as reported by ASPS Member Surgeons, creating new demand patterns:
- Current Impact: 20% of GLP-1 users have already undergone plastic surgery due to weight loss
- Future Demand: 41% considering nonsurgical procedures, 39% considering surgical procedures
- Popular Procedures: “Ozempic makeover” includes facelifts, tummy tucks, breast lifts, and body lifts
Who is Getting Plastic Surgery?
Age Distribution Insights
- Ages 40-54 form the largest group of cosmetic patients, accounting for 38% of all recipients, signaling that mid-life adults are most likely to seek cosmetic enhancement.
- Patients aged 30-39 make up 23% of surgical procedures, showing strong interest among younger adults who prioritize early interventions and subtle improvements before significant aging signs appear.
- Ages 55-69 represent 25% of all patients, indicating sustained demand into older adulthood, especially for procedures addressing age-related changes.
- Patients under 20 comprise just 1% of surgical procedures, underscoring limited access, stricter medical guidelines, and reduced social acceptance for surgery in this very young cohort.
Gender Distribution
- Women account for 94% of all cosmetic surgical procedures, demonstrating that cosmetic enhancements are a predominantly female-driven market globally.
- Male patients, though accounting for only 6%, show a noticeable annual increase (3.4% growth from 2023). Their rising participation reflects changing social norms and greater acceptance of aesthetic procedures for men.
- Men are especially present in gynecomastia correction (male breast reduction, which is 100% male) and are becoming more frequent recipients of neuromodulator injections (such as Botox, with 6% male participation).
FAQs
Which plastic surgeries are most frequently requested by men?
Liposuction leads as the most common plastic surgery among men. Male patients typically target abdominal fat removal and body contouring procedures.
Rhinoplasty ranks second in male plastic surgery preferences. Men seek nose reshaping for both aesthetic improvements and functional breathing enhancements.
Gynecomastia surgery addresses enlarged breast tissue in men. This procedure has gained popularity as men become more comfortable discussing body image concerns.
Eyelid surgery appeals to professional men seeking subtle facial improvements. The procedure reduces sagging skin and puffiness around the eyes.
Hair transplant procedures continue growing among male patients. Men pursue these treatments to address hair loss and restore hairline appearance.
In what country is plastic surgery most prevalent?
South Korea maintains the highest per capita rate of plastic surgery procedures globally. The country performs approximately 980 procedures per 100,000 people annually.
The United States leads in total procedure volume worldwide. American surgeons performed over 15 million cosmetic procedures in 2023.
Brazil ranks third globally in plastic surgery popularity. The country shows particularly high rates of breast augmentation and buttock enhancement procedures.
Cultural acceptance drives South Korea’s dominance in the field. Society views plastic surgery as normal self-improvement rather than vanity.
Advanced medical technology contributes to these countries’ leadership positions. These nations invest heavily in surgical innovation and training programs.
What are the current global statistics on plastic surgery?
Global plastic surgery procedures reached 15.6 million in 2023. This represents a 7.8% increase from the previous year across all procedure types.
Surgical procedures accounted for 6.8 million of the total volume. Non-surgical treatments made up the remaining 8.8 million procedures worldwide.
Women represent 86% of all plastic surgery patients globally. The average patient age ranges between 40 and 69 years old.
Breast augmentation ranks as the most common surgical procedure worldwide. Rhinoplasty follows as the second most performed surgical enhancement.
Asia-Pacific regions show the fastest growth in procedure volume. These markets increased by 12% in 2023 compared to global averages of 7.8%.
| Country | Total Procedures (2024) | Surgical | Non-Surgical | Per Capita Rate (per 1,000) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 6.2M | 2M | 4.2M | 17.8 |
| Brazil | 3.1M | 2.4M | 769K | 14.7 |
| Japan | 1.6M | 380K | 1.3M | 13.2 |
| Italy | 1.4M | 480K | 891K | 23.1 |
| Germany | 1.3M | 626K | 677K | 15.4 |
| South Korea | ~1 in 25 people | N/A | N/A | Highest globally |
