Americans cutting back on cosmetic surgery

People are cutting back on cosmetic surgery and other elective surgeries in response to the dismal economy, reversing the booming popularity of tummy tucks, eye lifts and breast

implants, which have soared in popularity in recent years.

NUMBERS TELL THE STORY

When polled in October,

62 percent of members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons said their business was down 20 percent or more from the year before. "I expect it's more than that in some areas, a 40 or 50 percent decrease," Michael McGuire, president-elect of the society, said in December. That's particularly true in areas such as New York, California and Florida, which led the surge in popularity.

A small survey by the society in October found that 60 percent of respondents said the economy had an impact on their plans for cosmetic surgery. That's not surprising, given that cosmetic procedures aren't covered by insurance.

CAN'T MISS WORK

People may be shunning surgery not only because of the cost but because of the downtime for recovery. "Now, you just don't want to take the time off" from work, says Alan Gold, president of the American Society of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeons, a group of doctors specializing in cosmetic surgery.

DISCOUNTS ARE RARE

Despite demand being way down, it doesn't mean it's easy to find a two-for-one breast job. Surgeons say they are being more flexible with payment plans but that they don't see widespread discounting. And, as with all medical procedures, safety should always trump cost.

THEY'LL BE BACK

The demand may be deferred, not denied. Gold, who says he saw a similar downturn after 9/11, predicts business will revive with the economy. Those who desire cosmetic procedures "are people who are concerned about their appearance or are concerned about age-related changes," he says. "They may defer that desire, but the desire isn't lost."