Seasonal Rise in Plastic Surgery during Ramadan: A Cross-sectional Survey

While demand for plastic surgery continues to rise worldwide, there are no known seasonal differences in plastic surgery volume. This study aimed to evaluate whether Ramadan was associated with a measurable rise in demand for plastic surgery. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional nationwide survey of plastic surgeons. Surgeon demographics, practice setting, case load, surgical preference during the month of Ramadan, factors associated with surgical volume, and procedures that were in demand during Ramadan were collected from all registered plastic surgeons in the Saudi Commission Health Specialties. RESULTS: A total of 120 (73%) of 165 plastic surgeon completed the survey. The male:female ratio was 8:1. A total of 34 (28%) surgeons operated in public- and private-sector practices, and 53% (n = 64) maintained private practice only. When they operate, 60 (50%), 34 (28%), and 10 (8%) operate in the morning, in morning and evening, and in evening only, respectively. Although surgeons reported lower case volumes due to reduced working hours, 57% (n = 68) reported an increase in the proportion of cosmetic surgery. There was more than 80% consensus between surgeons on school vacation and ensuing wedding season as reasons for increased demand for plastic surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Seasonal demand for cosmetic plastic surgery was virtually unheard of. Although reduced working hours in Ramadan meant lower plastic surgery case volumes, surgeons reported an increase in the demand for cosmetic surgical and nonsurgical procedures during the month of Ramadan. School vacation and post-Ramadan social events were attributed as reasons for this rise.