According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, it is estimated that about 18 million Americans underwent some form of surgical or minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures last year. While more women opt for these procedures, data also shows a significant increase in the number of men who opt for such procedures. The top procedures that were performed in terms of numbers are breast augmentation, liposuction, nose reshaping, eyelid surgery, and tummy tuck.

While these surgical procedures continue to be sought after, there are new procedures that are being designed to cater to people looking for trendier minimally-invasive procedures. Some such procedures that cater to those demands are:

1. Non-surgical rhinoplasty
Moving away from surgical procedures that alter the shape of the nose to get a straight or alter a curved or a hooked nose, this procedure uses temporary fillers to change its shape.

2. Thread lifts
Lifts are minute surgical procedures and incisions that lift the skin and prevent or hide sagging. The same lifts are now performed using dissolvable threads instead of incisions. These lifts are now much less expensive.

3. Longer lasting and preventive Botox
Botox is an injection used in cosmetic procedures. Once injected in the muscles, it inhibits muscle movements that cause wrinkles and lines in the skin and keeps the skin looking flawless. This treatment has to be repeated. A new Botox has been developed that lasts longer which means that the need for frequent injections is reduced.

4. EVLA
Endovenous laser ablation is a surgery which uses heat from a laser to reduce and shrink the varicose veins. The laser closes the thickened veins and allows the blood to flow from nearby veins. This surgery helps those who suffer from varicose veins in the legs and feel embarrassed by the bulging veins.

5. Post-bariatric surgery

This helps people who are obese and have lost a lot of weight either through rigorous exercise or through surgeries that help them lose weight. When a lot of weight is lost, the loose skin hangs around the abdomen, arms, thighs, and chin. This procedure post-weight loss helps to remove the loose skin and improve appearance.

6. Non-surgical fat removal
Cryolipolysis or cool sculpting is a procedure approved by the FDA in 2012. The cosmetic surgeon uses a device to freeze all the fat cells in a particular part of the body. Once the fat cells are destroyed, it is flushed out of the body by the liver. It takes some time for the results to show – in some cases it can take up to four months.

7. Ultherapy
Wrinkles in the neck give away age more than any other part of the body. Ultherapy is a treatment preferred by men and women to tighten and firm up neck muscles using radiofrequency and ultrasound technology. This is approved by the FDA and does not require surgery.

8. Fraxel laser treatment
Fractional lasers are used to minimize the signs of aging. This smoothes wrinkles, fine lines, spots, and acne and removes damage caused to the skin by sun rays.

Whether it is a surgery, injection or a non-invasive procedure, most cosmetic procedures will have some side effects. Before signing on the dotted line, it is important to understand the realities of the procedure, the side effects, and possible complications. More than anything else, consult certified surgeons who will do the procedure you want with due diligence.