The stock market isn’t the only sector seeing a surge following President-elect Donald Trump’s election victory. A growing wave of economic optimism has also led to a noticeable increase in cosmetic surgeries, particularly breast augmentations and liposuction, according to Dr. Mark Epstein, a leading Long Island plastic surgeon.
Dr. Epstein, a dual-board-certified expert in aesthetic surgery, reported that his business experienced a significant uptick in consultations and procedures beginning in late summer, a time typically known for slower demand. This shift occurred after the political climate shifted in Trump’s favor, particularly after the failed assassination attempt on him, which galvanized his support.
“The surge in interest really began when consumer confidence seemed to change dramatically,” Dr. Epstein, who owns Oceane Medical Aesthetics and Wellness in Hauppauge, told. “It’s as though people were regaining faith in the economy, and this reflected in the rising number of requests for body-enhancing procedures.”
As Trump’s victory appeared imminent, consumer confidence grew, and demand for non-essential procedures like cosmetic surgeries rose accordingly. A recent Pew Research Center post-election survey revealed that nearly 60% of respondents expressed confidence in Trump’s economic decision-making.
Cosmetic surgeries are rarely covered by insurance, and most patients foot the bill themselves. Dr. Epstein noted that the number of surgeries performed often correlates with the disposable income available to consumers, a factor that suffered during the inflationary pressures under President Biden’s administration.
“When the economy struggles, so does the aesthetic industry,” said Dr. Epstein. “When interest rates are high and the stock market is in decline, we see a decrease in procedures. But now, with more optimism around a Trump-led administration, things have turned around.”
In contrast to the financial difficulties many Americans faced under Biden’s tenure, consumer sentiment appears to have shifted in a more positive direction with Trump’s anticipated leadership. It released in October revealed that about 75% of respondents believed rising costs for everyday goods were outpacing their income, yet many still opted for discretionary spending on plastic surgeries.
Dr. Epstein, who treats primarily women, reported that breast augmentation is by far the most requested procedure, particularly among those aged 18 to 35. Liposuction remains highly popular as well, despite the availability of new weight-loss medications such as Ozempic.
Lauren, a 59-year-old Long Island resident, recently opted for a tummy tuck before her family’s annual trip to Florida. She attributed her decision to feeling more confident with the current economic environment. “With a better economy, I could afford it. And with the market doing better, I felt it was the right time to focus on myself,” she said.
This trend is not isolated to Dr. Epstein’s practice. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reported a 5% rise in cosmetic surgeries and a 7% increase in minimally invasive procedures in 2023, compared to the previous year. Additionally, since 2019, the ASPS has tracked a significant 10.2% increase in plastic surgeries, signaling growing societal acceptance of aesthetic enhancements.
In line with this trend, Dr. Epstein pointed out that the recent FDA approval of new breast implants, Motiva, has further boosted his business. These implants, which were introduced in late September, have been highly anticipated and, according to Epstein, have coincided with the increasing demand for cosmetic procedures.
“Having a groundbreaking new product enter the market at a time when consumer confidence is on the rise has led to an explosion of demand,” he explained.
As the surge in cosmetic procedures continues, it seems clear that the political and economic landscape is influencing more than just markets—it’s shaping how people view and invest in their personal aesthetics.
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