Being a cosmetic, non-essential industry, plastic surgeons have deeply felt the impact of the recession that has plagued the United States the past couple years. However, with the economy on the rebound and new jobs springing up, this particular industry is experiencing rapid growth as job seekers attempt to secure positions by any and all means necessary – including looking younger!

According to a recent report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 13 million plastic surgeries for cosmetic purposes were performed last year in the United States. That’s up 5% from 2009.

And it’s not just women. Apparently the upswing in procedures consists of a large number of older men who are having work done to look younger, both in the interest of seeking new employment and keeping existing employment.

Beyond plastic surgery, other inject-able anti-aging solutions such as Botox were up 12% last year, with fat injections up a whopping 14%. Sales of skin care products such as anti-aging creams are also way up, among both men and women.

This trend is expected to continue as the economy flourishes in 2011, and some have speculated that it could easily surpass the levels of cosmetic anti-aging consumerism that we saw prior to the onset of the recession.

Of course, you don’t need to spend a small fortune on cosmetic surgery to reap the benefits of having a youthful appearance in today’s job market. Although cosmetic surgery is the fastest solution, it is not the most economical, and definitely not the safest! (Cue the FaceCreamCentral broken record) Incorporating a regular preventative anti-aging routine that includes moisturizing, avoiding sun exposure, and maintaining a healthy diet is by far the best way to sustaining that youthful glow of yours! Unless of course you’re applying for a job in a plastic surgeon’s office…they might want someone who is more familiar with the field!