Cosmetic Surgery Beauty Premium

Almost 12 million cosmetic procedures were performed in the United States, up 44 per cent from 8.3 million in 2003 and 465 per cent from 2.1 million in 1997.

In total Americans spent just under $12.5 billion US on cosmetic procedures in 2004.

Costs for cosmetic surgery run about $2,000 to $2,500 an hour, Kester said. Liposuction can take one-and-a-half hours for love handles _ what men usually want _ or three hours if thigh reduction is also sought, for a cost anywhere from $3,000 to $7,500.

Breast augmentation generally costs between $5,700 to $8,500, including the implants, Kester said.

Hair transplants can cost between $5,000 and $20,000, depending on how bald the person is and how much work needs to be done, Hasson said.

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