In 2016, Americans spent more than 15 billion dollars on combined surgical and non-surgical procedures. This is a first, according to The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). Women, by far, made up the majority of these statistics. Here are the top 5 cosmetic surgery operations chosen by women last year.

1. Liposuction

A perennial contender in the top five list because it is popular among women of all generations. We live in a society that is extremely weight conscious and one that is also quite impatient. On the surface, liposuction fits the requirement as quick and fairly easy way to lose weight. However, it should not be considered to be a weight loss tool. Best results are realized by individuals who are not fat, but troubled by reasonably well defined bulges of fat unresponsive to diet and exercise. People who turn to liposuction without addressing an unhealthy lifestyle of fatty foods and no exercise are wasting their time and money.

2. Breast Augmentation

Over the last 5 years, breast augmentation was listed first or second among ASAP's top five cosmetic surgery procedures. According to their statistics, over 300,000 women undergo breast augmentation yearly. The popularity of this procedure starts again with our society's fixation on larger breasts. Fair or not, many young women seek out this operation to raise self esteem, or simply wish to make their bodies more symmetrical. Many mothers desire to regain the size and shape of their breasts prior to pregnancy and breast feeding. The advancement and improvement of the quality and safety of silicone breast implants have contributed to this operation's popularity.

3. Abdominoplasty (Tummytuck)

This operation addresses changes in the integrity of abdominal skin and muscles seen after pregnancy or weight loss. Lower abdominal skin can sag, causing a pouch-like deformity called panniculus adiposus. Abdominal wall muscles can become so weakened that abdominal contents protrude, creating a pregnant-like appearance. The effects of a healthy diet and exercise are limited because of the tissue damage. Plastic surgeons trim redundant skin and repair and tighten weakened abdominal wall muscles to recover abdominal form.

4. Mastopexy (Breast Lift)

Sagging breasts can be genetic, or caused by pregnancy or weight loss. In either case, it can affect a women's self esteem or level of comfort because of the need for underwire bras to support the breasts. Breast lift surgery trims excess skin and repositions the nipples to a higher position. The goal of the operation is perkier, firmer breasts. Sometimes implants are also placed to increase size, and this is called augmentation mastopexy. Unfortunately, scars on the breasts is an unavoidable necessity, and this must be understood prior to having this surgery.

5. Eyelid Surgery

Redundant skin of the upper eyelids, creating a sleepy appearance, is one of the earlier signs of facial aging. Pillows of bulging fat of the lower eyelids is often genetic, but can contribute to the appearance of dark circles. Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery involves trimming redundant upper eyelid skin and removing or repositioning lower eyelid fat to rejuvenate the face in an unassuming manner.

These five procedures enjoy such popularity because of the high levels of satisfaction achieved by the results. However, each of these is an operation with inherent risks that go along with the advantages. Realistic expectations and good health are prerequisites to a happy outcome. Consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to explore your options. Surgery.org. is a reliable place to start.

Robert Tornambe, MD is a New York City Plastic Surgeon and Medical Advisor for Trueself. Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Tornambe has been practicing plastic surgery for more than 25 years. He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, was featured in NYMAG's "Best Doctors" issue, and was the Chief of Plastic Surgery at NYC's Cabrini Medical Center for 20 years.