Botox for business: Job hunters change their looks

By: Kay Quinn

KSDK -- Plastic surgeons say the bad economy is forcing their patients to put a lot of elective procedures on hold.

But one local cosmetic dermatologist is noticing an unusual trend in this struggling economy.

She says the tight job market is actually creating demand for some non-invasive procedures.

In a survey conducted by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) 59 percent of women surveyed said the economy was having an impact on their plans to go through with a cosmetic operation.

But when it comes to things like Botox, an ASPS survey of U.S. doctors shows demand for cosmetic treatments on the lower end of the fee scale are up.

Marsha Hohenstein is busy in her job as an eyeglass rep. She logs a thousand miles a week over two states.

"I'm up in at least five or six offices a day making calls," said Hohenstein, "talking to buyers, bringing samples in and it's a very competitive field."

Her biggest asset in making that connection on the job: herself.

"They like to see what you have on, what you're wearing, what your family's doing, what your hair looks like, your makeup, so you do want to always look your best," said Hohenstein.

So she recently decided to consult with a cosmetic dermatologist for tips on how to maximize her appearance.

"There are younger reps out there just out of college that sure look fresh and have a lot less years on them than I do," said Hohenstein, "so a little help in the cosmetic area would be useful."

It's a trend a local cosmetic dermatologist, and many others across the country, are seeing. Demand is coming from men and women, and old and new patients to Dr. Dee Anna Glaser's office.

"We've even had a few cases where some individuals have lost their job and now they have to seek a new job in a very tight market and so they're coming in to have some non-invasive procedures so they can look their best," said Dr. Glaser.

Far less expensive than facelifts, demand exists for things like fillers. Injectable materials including Restylane and Juvederm are often called a "liquid facelift" because they fill out fine lines and improve sagging skin. Then there's Botox. It's injected to paralyze muscles and stop creases in the skin from forming.

"They say, gee, this isn't the best time," recalled Dr. Glaser about what her patients say about the cost of these procedures. But she says many want to look their best. "I'm worried about my job, there've been some layoffs, we're hearing about potential layoffs, we're hearing about potential downsizing, so I want to be the one to still keep my job," said Dr. Glaser.

So what does all this cost? Expect to pay about $100 for the initial physician's consultation and evaluation. Botox injections can start around $200 to $300 and go up from there. Fillers are about $500 to $1,000. If you go up to the next step and get a laser treatment, expect to pay $1,500 to $2,000.

Hohenstein decided on Botox and fillers and believes it's money well spent.

"I would rather her do less than people to even notice. I'm the one who's going to notice. Probably not a lot of other people, except for this"(interview), she said.

Dr. Glaser says she also counsels patients to keep their expectations realistic.

"Certainly we do have that conversation that there is more to a job than just your appearance but unfortunately one's appearance can make a difference," said Dr. Glaser.

Hohenstein says her goal is to look her best in this very competitive job market. But she also likes the self-esteem boost she believes comes along with her treatments.