Tell Us What You Really Think

The latest batch of statistics from associations of core specialists show that demand for cosmetic services continues its inevitable growth. That growth in demand supports a long-term trend and is due in large part to significant advancements in technique and technology over the last few years. But that's just part of the story. As discussed in this issue, men are increasingly seeking aesthetic services, and while their share of the market has remained about the same over the past few years, the sheer number of male aesthetic patients is on the rise.

Additionally, younger patients are increasingly looking to cosmetic surgeons if not to reverse the signs of aging then to preserve the appearance of youth.

In reporting its latest statistics, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (AAFPRS) noted the potential influence of communication technology on the younger generation's sense of self. With video phone calls, social media postings, and, of course, the ubiquitous “selfie,” people are being seen—and seeing themselves—more frequently and in new ways. They want to look good and to correct the imperfections they see in their own images.

But maybe there's another aspect of technology that's driving our notions of “age.” Increasingly, when I haul out my iPhone 5, I risk sideways glances and even direct comments about the relic. The four-year-old piece of technology is considered by some to be so outdated, I might as well lug around the big golden-rod colored rotary phone that hung in my parent's kitchen in my youth. As the world of technology continues to evolve at break-neck speed, are the constant changes and updates influencing our own sense of time?

It is with this thought in mind that I acknowledge that Modern Aesthetics® magazine is now in its fifth year. Over the past few years we have tackled a number of trends that are shaping aesthetic practice today. Under the guidance of our chief editors Steven Dayan, MD and Heidi Waldorf, MD, and with the support of our editorial board, we have kept our approach fresh and sought different perspectives on each story. We have embraced technology, delivering relevant video content and online offerings that we hope help you in your day-to-day practice.

Our fifth year feels like an ideal time to ask you how we're doing. Are we meeting our goals? Are we benefiting you in your practice? What can we do better?

Hopefully you can spare a few minutes over the next few weeks to share your feedback. We know it's not much, but as a token of appreciation, we'll award Starbucks® gift cards to 10 randomly selected respondents.

Just visit ModernAesthetics.com/survey and click the button to complete the survey. We'll use your responses for internal planning purposes and while we may publicly discuss trends in responses, I assure you that the names of participants will not be publicized.

Thanks in advance for your time, and for reading Modern Aesthetics®. We look forward to growing old (but remaining fresh) with you.

—Paul Winnington
Editorial Director