Over 17 million cosmetic procedures were performed in the U.S. last year, according to a procedural survey conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery.

The survey, which was different from any previous study by the Academy, posted numbers higher than ever seen before.  To gather data for the survey, they polled AACS members as well as random physicians across the United States.

The past two years have brought an 8% increase in cosmetic procedures for AACS members, despite the economic recession.

Procedures that increased markedly include eyelid surgery, abdominoplasty, rhinoplasty, chemical peels and dermal fillers.

Dr. Mark Berman, President of the Academy, offered his optimistic view of the situation: “As the economy recovers slowly but surely, we are seeing patients come back and feel better about doing some things for themselves that maybe they’d been putting off for a while.