More Than Half of Americans Approve of Cosmetic Surgery

Anyone familiar with the reality TV show “Real Housewives of Orange County” knows many of the cast members are familiar with cosmetic procedures. In a recent episode, cast member Alexis Bellino asked, “Who doesn’t want Botox? Hello?”

Her sentiments seem to reflect a growing portion of the U.S. population, beyond Orange County. A new survey by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) found that more than half of Americans (51 percent) — regardless of income — approve of cosmetic surgery.

The approval ratings broken down by income are as follows:

• 52% of respondents with an income of under $25K approve of cosmetic surgery
• 48% of respondents with an income between $25K-$50K approve
• 45% of respondents with an income between $50K-$75K approve
• 56% of respondents with an income above $75K approve

“As the numbers suggest, people in every income bracket, single or married, male or female, view plastic surgery as a reasonable option today,” said Dr. Felmont F. Eaves III, president of ASAPS. “Taking care of yourself and paying attention to physical appearance is increasingly important to everyone.”

And while it’s common for celebrities to deny undergoing cosmetic procedures, the survey found 67 percent of respondents said they would not be embarrassed if their friends and family knew they had cosmetic surgery.

In an unscientific survey, the Orange County Register found similar results when it asked readers if they agreed with Bellino’s statement about Botox with about half agreeing with her, that it is indeed a good thing. More than half agreed with another statement by Bellino: “The O.C. has put a few requirements on women that live here – big boobs, blond hair and Botox.”