Economy cuts into cosmetic procedures

Fewer people are dishing out dollars in recent months for cosmetic procedures, particularly major surgical procedures, according to plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and consumer surveys. "We're seeing patients who are balking, postponing and canceling their appointments and surgeries," says Steven Hopping, president of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and director of the Center for Cosmetic Surgery. Some practices are down by as much as 15% to 30%, Hopping says.