eLayaway

Tummy Tuck on Time

(Rochester, N.Y.) -- Layaway programs are gaining popularity due to the rough economy. Now, it’s also an option for consumers who want a little nip here or a tuck there.

The Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery in Rochester is offering layaway for surgical procedures such as liposuction or a face lift.

Patients can sign up online at the eLayaway Web site. A deposit may be non-refundable, but subsequent payments serve as a savings plan to afford a particular procedure.

Surgeon Dr. William Koenig of the Quatela Center said, "Just as a way to be fiscally responsible, the layaway concept has really come back fairly strongly throughout the country in many industries including medical."

Quatela is the first center for plastic surgery in the area to offer layaway service.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons said Americans typically spend up to $12 billion a year on plastic surgery. But, the industry saw as much as a 62% decrease in 2008.

Koenig said, "It goes with the economy; when the economy is not great, the number of plastic surgery procedures does go down."

Surgeons say that more Americans view plastic surgery as a means to an end.

"If you want to improve your job prospects and look better and feel better, plastic surgery is a great way to do it,” Koenig said. "Plastic surgery truly is that; you're investing in yourself."

Last year, a men's health study ranked Rochester among the top 10 cities in the country for plastic surgery procedures.