Zoom Boom or Bust? Understanding Post‐Pandemic Interest in Facial Plastic Surgery via Google Trends

Abstract

ObjectiveTo understand post‐pandemic interest in plastic surgery procedures via Joinpoint analysis of Google Trends search data.MethodsGoogle Trends was used to quantify search volumes from January 2019–December 2022 for select cosmetic face and body procedures in the United States. A keyword analytic tool (Keywords Everywhere) extracted absolute search volumes (average monthly searches). Joinpoint analysis assessed search trends over time reported as monthly percentage change (MPC).ResultsAll procedures queried, including a non‐cosmetic control (cataract surgery), demonstrated expected declines at the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Blepharoplasty, face lift, neck lift, and Botox demonstrated statistically significant increase in search volumes that remained elevated relative to pre‐pandemic levels. Rhinoplasty, fillers, and abdominoplasty interest increased initially followed by return to pre‐pandemic levels by the end of 2022. The remainder of search terms did not show a clear temporal associated with COVID‐19 lockdowns.ConclusionThe “Zoom Boom” appears to be a real phenomenon reflected by sustained increase in public interest in relation to facial plastic procedures.Level of EvidenceNA Laryngoscope, 2024