2023 Rewind

2023: a year that will live in infamy both in our cosmetic bubble and in the world at large. Globally, we all seemed to be impacted in one way or another both professionally and personally by socioeconomic factors, record inflation, wars in Europe and the Middle East, Wokeism, diversity, and—unfortunately—deepening political divides.

However, aesthetically it is a different story. Here we find so much in common, whether it be the patient’s tales, workplace stresses, or warm-hearted victories. I am happy to report in-person conferences are back and it has allowed us to rekindle that human connection sorely missing from the virtual call-ins. Whenever we get together, we find time to laugh, learn, and relax.

Social media remains on fire and continues to influence our patients more than ever, for better or worse. This year has seen doctors reprimanded by state boards for inappropriate posts and others become Insta/Tik Tok famous for educating and/or entertaining millions. Office staffing seems to have become more complex as a new post-Covid generation entered the workforce with differing skills and demands. At the same time, practice consolidation skyrocketed with many senior physicians pursuing an exit strategy and younger physicians/providers opting for the team approach and back-office support.

This year also saw medical companies flourish as a new weight loss drug is now poised to be the most significant and popular drug ever to reach the market. For many clinics, it also trimmed their non-surgical body shaping and fat-reduction businesses, but at the same time it also has ushered in a new wave of emaciated faces and loose skin requiring tightening.

Botulinum toxin continues to be the most popular medical cosmetic treatment worldwide. The barrier to US entry, though, was a bit much for a promising new toxin but don’t count it out. Rumor has it it is poised to take another leap at it in the coming year. And another novel toxin flamed onto the market with a blaze and promise but struggled to meet its potential. A reboot seems to have it breathing fresh oxygen again.

This year’s conventional wisdom warned us to watch out for “filler fatigue” as too many pillow faces headlined by Madonna seem to scare patients away, but it also may have redirected more patients toward surgical options such as deep plane facelifts and fat transfers. Have no fear, industry has responded with a commitment to research and training focused on a “less is more” approach and an emphasis on achieving natural outcomes. In parallel, this year we got a new skin-boosting filler indicated for the dermis that offers a healthy glow to the skin the likes we have yet to see. And I am told there is more like this to come.

As the year winds down and we enter the holiday season, an optimistic ambiance fills the air. And while traditionally it may be the busiest time of the year, I raise my glass and wish you a cheerful toast. I hope you find the time to celebrate family, friends, and loved ones in a year that likely will never be lost.