It used to be thought of as something for wealthy women with time on their hands. But, cosmetic surgery is much more mainstream these days, even among men.

Win McNamee, Getty Images
Win McNamee, Getty Images
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"Men made up nine percent of all cosmetic procedures in 2011, which is about 1.2 million men, and that was up six percent from 2010," said Dr. Valerie Ablaza, President of the New Jersey Society of Plastic Surgeons.

So, why are more men choosing to go under the knife?

"The baby boomers are aging and they want to look the same on the outside as they feel on the inside," said Ablaza. "Plus, the economy is pulling many of them out of retirement and I think it's widely believed that appearance and youthful looks play a part in getting hired or getting a promotion. The media also plays a role. There's a pressure to look young and with all the things you see on television, men are starting to pay attention."

"There are also many people who haven't necessarily liked certain things about themselves and they're opting to change these things while they're looking for a new job. People are also investing in themselves rather than material things to give them a competitive edge in the marketplace," said Ablaza. "I think many men also watch their significant others go through cosmetic procedures and they see the planning, the procedure, the recovery and then the results. They see their spouses or significant others get a boost in their self esteem and they figure they can do it too."

The most popular procedures among men are nose jobs, eyelid surgery, liposuction, breast reduction and face lifts. Chin implants have also become popular. "Many people these days take part in video conferences and they're starting to pay attention to their faces and how they will look on camera, so they're making little fixes. It's fairly easy and can make a nice difference," said Ablaza. "When it comes to non-invasive procedures, botox, soft tissue fillers and chemical peels are very popular."

"Technology has allowed for easier procedures and faster recovery times, so men and women from all different backgrounds are starting to take advantage. Anyone with a few hundred dollars can stop by for a lunchtime procedure and walk away looking more youthful and refreshed," said Ablaza.

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