As the economic slowdown continues, men and women are seeking inventive ways to improve their chances in the workplace. For many job seekers in Columbus, BOTOX® Cosmetic tops the list of ways to put their ‘best face forward’ at interviews and career fairs.

Columbus, Ohio (April 2009) – The job market may seem daunting to some job seekers, but in Ohio men and women are finding unconventional ways to “lift” their job opportunities. Dr. Jason Lichten, a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Central Ohio Plastic Surgery, is seeing a rise in the number of patients considering both surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic options like BOTOX Cosmetic in Columbus, Ohio to enhance their job prospects.

Data released from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reports a 5% increase in BOTOX® Cosmetic procedures across the country in 2008. In addition, a recent study notes that almost three out of four working American women believe that appearance and youthful looks play a part in advancing their career. Men are also turning out in increasing numbers for both nonsurgical treatments and Columbus cosmetic surgery to give them a competitive edge in the workplace.

“In a job market where experienced candidates have to compete against new grads, many people find that cosmetic treatments help level the playing field and even give them an edge over their competitors,” says Dr. Lichten. “The way you feel about your looks has a direct bearing on your self-image and sense of confidence, and right now nonsurgical treatments like BOTOX Cosmetic are particularly popular because they offer many people a low-cost way to feel more confident and refreshed.”

Job and unemployment-related anxiety can often create visible signs of aging and weariness that may make a person look less assertive, less confident in their own capabilities, and as a result, less attractive to interviewers who may prefer younger, more energetic-looking candidates. BOTOX can be the little boost that helps people feel more in command of their employment future.

“For many of my Columbus cosmetic surgery and medical spa patients, BOTOX is about more than just looking youthful and refreshed. It’s about having an opportunity to show potential employers your energy and initiative, without having to battle the unfortunate stereotypes that can exist around aging,” explains Dr. Lichten.

While Dr. Lichten specializes in cosmetic surgery procedures like face lifts, breast augmentation and liposuction, he also performs most of the medical spa services at his practice himself, to ensure quality results for his patients. BOTOX Cosmetic is typically injected in the forehead, brows, and eye area, and in many cases patients also will have dermal filler, chemical peel, or skin resurfacing treatments to help improve the health and appearance of their skin.

“Partly because there are so many options for noninvasive treatments, it’s very important for patients to choose a surgical center or medical spa where qualified medical professionals are administering the treatments,” explains Dr. Lichten. “Plastic surgeons in particular will know how to perform treatments for maximum cosmetic effect and will understand how to combine treatments to ensure good results in the long term. Especially for patients who are looking to improve their job prospects, long-term results can be very important.”