Costs are Dropping on Minimally Invasive Cosmetic Procedures – Good or Bad for Patient Safety?

As the popularity of cosmetic dermatology increases, and the technology and research improves, it’s not surprising to hear that the cost of several procedures has dropped since 2008. As techniques like Botox® Cosmetic injections, cosmetic fillers, microdermabrasion, chemical peels and other minimally invasive cosmetic dermatology procedures become more main stream and more readily available, it is normal that costs would subsequently drop. Additionally, as these procedures gain in popularity as men as well as women, it seems likely that they will become even more mainstream and readily available.

In fact, according to the data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the price for one of the most popular minimally invasive procedures, Botox®, has dropped approximately 6% in cost since 2008. Microdermabrasion also dropped in cost, a substantial 29.5%, while laser hair removal also became more affordable with a 21.5% drop in price.

This also illustrates what could be considered a troubling trend in the cosmetic procedure and surgery industry – not that procedures are becoming more affordable, but that competition is heating up in the form of spas and other professionals who are trying to get into the cosmetic dermatology game. Using discount pricing and coupon vehicles like Groupon and Living Social, many of these spas are bringing in patients based on price, without sufficient medical training or even experience to guarantee a safe environment and a positive result.

As costs drop and all of these procedures become more available and popular and yes, affordable, it is still important to make sure that you are being treated by an experienced dermatologist and a well reputed dermatology practice. Not only is cosmetic dermatology a medical procedure, there is also an aesthetic art to many of these techniques. A great certified medical professional who is experienced and skilled is well worth the potentially extra cost, or the wait to get in with a great dermatology practice.