Sep 29, 2008 11:44 pm US/Eastern
Americans Battle Job Loss With Cosmetic Surgery
What Was Once A Vanity Exercise Has Turned Into Fight For Financial Survival For Many Who Go Under Knife
Some Say Changing Appearance Improves Chances In Interviews
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
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More and more people are getting cosmetic surgery done so they can look good for prospective job interviews.
AP
The economy seems to be in a free fall. There are layoffs -- and rumors of layoffs -- and many people are looking to get a jump on the competition in these tough times.
Here's one way you may not have thought of.
In a time of failing banks and falling stocks, prices are rising and people are out of work. It's a competitive job market, where looking good may be as important as what is on your resume.
"They come to me to get a little bit of an edge," Dr. Amiva Prasad told CBS station WCBS-TV in New York City.
The plastic surgeon said he sees a surge in business -- as the economic news worsens.
"What they do is they're all ready, they have their resume and then they look in the mirror and say you know I need to do something," Dr. Prasad said.
Patients like 53-year-old Theresa Rampelo said she hopes that doing something about her deep facial lines will give her a leg up if she loses her job.
"I just feel getting rid of them will make me look younger so this way if I am thrown out there in the workforce it will be easier for me to get a job," Rampelo said.
Across town, Bridget Schoonover, with the same worries, said she's also having work done.
"It's something to make you look more attractive, younger...more competitive in the workplace. Looks do count, unfortunately," Schoonover said.
Executive recruiter Stephen Viscusi said cosmetic procedures are a luxury no more.
"It's not vanity and it's not superficial," Viscusi said. "It's now practical in these recessionary times."
Just minutes after her procedure, Rampelo all ready sees improvement and said she'll now have the edge she needs.
"I feel better. I'll look better and I'll definitely be more confident," Rampelo said.
According to Dr. Prasad, the most common procedures are Botox and injected fillers, followed by surgery to remove bags under the eyes.
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