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Recession? Not for Botox Docs

For some, it's the cheaper alternative

By Ambreen Ali, Newser User

Posted Dec 23, 2008 2:14 PM CST

(Newser) – Botox, apparently the poor man's plastic surgery, has not taken a hit in this recession, according to a recent survey. In fact, some doctors say demand for the pay-as-you-go treatment has increased as patients put off pricier surgeries, the Wall Street Journal reports. A lip plump or wrinkle-smoothing costs a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per visit, chump change compared with a $15,000 facelift.

Many clients see dermal-fillers as a career investment—much like salon hair dyeing, which can cost just as much. But Botox-maker Allergen says it is bracing for "subdued demand," and some retailers have been luring customers with discounts and rebates. As the recession continues, they fear that strapped patients will stretch the time between treatments or skip them altogether.

[Images (3)]

[Quotes (1)]

Leila Rosalia receives lip-filling injections in Rio de Janeiro last month. (AP Photo/Ricardo Moraes)

Botox treatments have increased in some cases during the recession. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, file)

Doctors have been tempted to lure in new patients with discounts. (PRNewsFoto/Allergan, Inc.)

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Financial investments aren't worthwhile anymore, so people are investing in themselves. - Joel Schlessinger, a dermatologist

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Recession? Not for Botox Docs