CHICAGO — Perhaps the key finding in the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery’s recently released annual Procedural Survey is that laser technology is steering the future of the cosmetic surgery industry, reports Medical News Today.

According to the survey, cosmetic surgeons have seen a huge increase in patients opting for laser resurfacing: Over the past three years, the number of men undergoing the procedure has increased 456 percent, females, 215 percent.

Medical News Today quotes Patrick McMenamin, M.D., president of the Chicago-based AACS, as saying, “Cosmetic-surgery technology is advancing at the speed of light. As we learn more about the cosmetic uses for lasers, the more patients benefit from effective results and quicker recovery time. It is an exciting time for both cosmetic-surgery patients and physicians.” Other notable survey findings:

• Cosmetic surgeons have seen a 29 percent increase in their female clientele over the past year. According to the survey, this finding indicates that despite economic woes, women are continuing to invest in their appearances.

• The top three most frequently performed cosmetic-surgery procedures in 2008 were liposuction, blepharoplasty and breast augmentation.

• The most popular noninvasive procedures were Botox injections, laser hair removal and treatment with hyaluronic-acid fillers.

The 2008 Procedural Data is based on a survey of U.S.-based AACS members that was completed in December 2008.