NEWS — APRIL 2004
COSMETIC SURGERY
Large Regional Hospital Planned In Dubai Healthcare City...
In conjunction with the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS), Dubai investors are establishing a world class institution for the delivery of quality health care services. The goals for Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) include attracting leading medical professionals and organizations to provider high-standard health care at the facility, including cosmetic surgery. As a full-service hospital, care will include cosmetic dentistry, dermatology, and laser therapy, along with beauty treatments that may or may not involve surgery. In the future, AACS meetings will be held in DHCC. Visiting surgeons will also provide support and training. The project is apparently in development at this time.
Many Consumers Rely On Credit To Pay For Cosmetic Surgery...
According to recent news from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), between 33% and 50% of U.S. consumers pay for cosmetic surgery procedures with credit or debit cards, while 5% - 10% use financing plans. One of the reasons is because costs can be significant, ranging from about $400 for a Botox injection to several thousands of dollars for liposuction or extensive procedures such as a face lift. Rates vary on a regional basis in the United States.
According to ASPS statistics cited in a UPI news article, the top five reconstructive surgeries in 2003 included tumor removal, laceration repair, scar revision, hand surgery, and breast reduction. Demand for cosmetic surgery is also demonstrating strong growth globally, as noted by increased procedure rates in countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. Another trend involves U.S. consumers who choose overseas locations to undergo their procedures.
Professional Skin Care Publications Launched In China...
Following the success of the Chinese version of Ophthalmology Times, Advanstar Medical Economics published Cosmetic Surgery Times and Dermatology Times in China last month. Advertisers are supportive of the new venture and applaud the opportunity to reach Chinese practitioners with information about their products. The magazines' databases are also supporting extensive market research efforts.
Some Dentists Combine Oral Care With Cosmetic Surgery...
As reported in the Denver Post late last month, cosmetic surgeons are facing increased competition from dentists who have added laser and other procedures to their service offerings. A new bill under consideration by Colorado lawmakers broadens the scope of practice that's covered for dentists. Because board certified plastic surgeons are required to complete a seven-year residency program, their concerns seem reasonable. Oral surgeons can have significant levels of experience with face lifts and other cosmetic procedures. The benefits of adding cosmetic services are attractive, and there appears to be limited tracking of practitioners who are not board-certified, outside of hospitals.
Tax Refunds Increasingly Used For Periodontal Plastic Surgery...
According to an online consumer poll conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), responses showed that up to 33% of Americans may spend tax refunds on periodontal plastic surgery. In a separate poll, 25% of periodontist respondents indicated that April through June is their busiest period.
