ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. - Cosmetic plastic surgery continues to be popular with nearly 7.5 million Americans choosing procedures last year. As its popularity rises, so does the demand for quicker, less invasive fixes. As fast as we ring in the New Year, new advances in wrinkle reduction are being studied both in clinical trials and with the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) continues to examine these scientific therapies and their viability for the future of patient care.

"With more Americans becoming proactive about their health and appearance, it is not surprising that products and techniques are continuously evolving that may help us fight normal signs of aging," said ASPS President James Wells, MD. "As plastic surgeons we must become involved and seek safe therapies that may help our patients achieve the look they desire."

Earlier this year when Botox® received FDA approval for the treatment of frown lines it quickly became a household name. Two other wrinkle fighters, MyoblocTM and Dysport®, both derivatives of botulinum toxin, are being reviewed by the FDA for cosmetic purposes.

Myobloc is a form of botulinum toxin type B, and has received FDA approval for treatment of neck muscle spasms. Myobloc's manufacturer claims quicker results than Botox for cosmetic use as well as a longer shelf life. It may also serve as an alternative to patients who are resistant to botulinum toxin type A. Because Myobloc currently has FDA approval for one use, patients in the U.S. can consent to off-label use for cosmetic treatment. ("Off-label" is the use of approved drugs for unapproved indications.)

"Exciting advances are continually at the forefront of plastic surgery," said Dr. Wells. "But consumers should be fully advised of risks before consenting to any off-label product."

Dysport is another form of botulinum toxin type A. Currently used in Britain, it's cheaper than Botox and its manufacturer claims the injections last longer, with patients returning twice a year for injections, instead of the four treatments with Botox. Dysport is not yet available in the U.S.

Injectable collagen has been used for years to improve facial texture. Collagen can fill deep facial wrinkles, creases, furrows, sunken cheeks and scars. The FDA approved the first type of collagen injection in 1981. Collagen injections can last a few weeks or indefinitely. Because these injections carry a risk of allergic reaction, an allergy skin test is necessary before the procedure.

Recently, an alternative to collagen injections, used outside the U.S., has received attention. Restylane, composed of hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally produced by the body, adds volume under the wrinkle, lifts the area up and smoothes it out. A treatment takes about 30 minutes and the results, which the manufacturer claims last up to one year, can be seen immediately. Since this injectable is composed of a substance in the body, no allergy skin test is required. The FDA has received results of clinical trials with Restylane, and the manufacturer is awaiting approval for official use in the U.S.

A non-injectable technology that recently received FDA approval shows promising results. The ThermaCool TCTM System by Thermage was approved for wrinkle treatment in the eye area. The device uses a radio frequency to smooth crows feet at the corners of the eyes. The energy from the radio frequency heats the lower areas of the skin and causes collagen to contract and tighten. The manufacturer claims it tightens the skin without harming the skin's outer later. To help protect the skin's outer layer a low-temperature "cryogen spray" cools the skin's surface before, during and after each radio frequency pulse. ThermaCool is currently being evaluated for other clinical applications.

"Anyone considering cosmetic surgery should fully investigate all options and do their homework," reminds Dr. Wells. "Discuss all options and concerns with a plastic surgeon certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery. Every patient is different. You may walk into the office considering one procedure, but after a thorough consultation, you and your board-certified plastic surgeon may agree on another therapy or solution."

ASPS, founded in 1931, is the largest plastic surgery organization in the world and the foremost authority on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. ASPS represents physicians certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. For referrals to ABPS-certified plastic surgeons in your area and to learn more about cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, call the ASPS at 1-888-4-PLASTIC (1-888-475-2784) or visit www.plasticsurgery.org.