The Aesthetic Society | Overview, Membership & Events

6 minutes

Category: Plastic Surgery Marketing

The Aesthetic Society (formerly ASAPS)

Visit Website
Founded
1967 (American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, “ASAPS”)
Members
Board-certified plastic surgeons (ABPS/RCPSC), with international pathways; 4,000+ members worldwide
Focus
Advancing aesthetic plastic surgery & cosmetic medicine through education, research, innovation, patient safety, and ethical standards. Also known as the Aesthetic Society, the Aesthetic Society of Plastic Surgery, and historically the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Key Activities
  • The Aesthetic MEET (flagship annual CME meeting; formerly “The Aesthetic Meeting”)
  • Year-round CME education, symposia & hands-on training
  • The Aesthetic Foundation – safety, outcomes & innovation research
  • Professional standards, ethics, and public/patient education
Contact
11262 Monarch Street, Garden Grove, CA 92841, USA
Phone: 562.799.2356
Fax: 562.799.1098

What Is The Aesthetic Society?

The Aesthetic Society, formerly known as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), is one of the world’s leading organizations devoted exclusively to aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine.

It represents board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in aesthetic procedures of the face, breast, and body. The Society is recognized for setting standards in patient safety, continuing education, and ethical practice across the specialty.

To advance the science, art, and safe practice of aesthetic plastic surgery through:

  • Education — Ongoing CME, hands-on training, and peer learning
  • Research — Funding and publishing evidence-based studies through The Aesthetic Foundation
  • Innovation — Introducing new technologies and best practices responsibly
  • Ethics & Safety — Promoting trust and transparency between surgeons and patients

By connecting surgeons, researchers, and educators, The Aesthetic Society strengthens the field’s credibility and helps ensure patients worldwide receive care guided by skill, safety, and professionalism.

Why Membership in The Aesthetic Society Matters

Joining The Aesthetic Society connects board-certified plastic surgeons to the highest standards in aesthetic education, safety, and professional growth. It’s one of the most respected affiliations in cosmetic surgery—recognized globally for advancing ethical, evidence-based practice.

Key Benefits & Reasons to Join

  • Exclusive membership: Open only to ABPS or RCPSC–certified plastic surgeons with significant experience in aesthetic procedures.
  • Continuous education: Access to advanced CME courses, clinical workshops, and peer-to-peer training that keep surgeons at the forefront of technique and technology.
  • Global networking: Collaborate with 4,000+ leading aesthetic specialists worldwide through meetings, mentorship, and digital communities.
  • Research and innovation: Contribute to and benefit from studies funded by The Aesthetic Foundation and published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal.
  • Ethical and safety leadership: Be part of an organization that promotes transparency, patient trust, and responsible innovation.
  • Professional recognition: Membership communicates expertise, credibility, and commitment to the highest standards of patient care.

Even for aesthetic practices and med spas led by surgeons, staying informed about The Aesthetic Society’s research and training opportunities helps align daily practice with the gold standard in aesthetic medicine.

How to Join The Aesthetic Society

Membership in The Aesthetic Society is by application and invitation for board-certified plastic surgeons who meet the Society’s standards in training, ethics, and patient safety.

Eligibility

  • Board-certified by ABPS or RCPSC
  • Documented experience in aesthetic procedures
  • Uses accredited surgical facilities
  • Strong professional reputation & ethics
  • Sponsorship by current members

Steps to Join

  1. Complete the online application
  2. Upload certification & practice documentation
  3. Provide recent aesthetic case experience
  4. Secure two member endorsements
  5. Membership Committee review & decision

International pathways are also available for qualified surgeons outside the U.S. and Canada who meet comparable training and safety standards.de

Events & Conferences

The Aesthetic MEET (formerly The Aesthetic Meeting) is the premier annual event hosted by The Aesthetic Society. It brings together leading plastic surgeons, educators, and aesthetic professionals from around the world for four days of advanced education and collaboration.

The upcoming meeting will be held May 14–17, 2026, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center.

Highlights

  • Comprehensive sessions covering facial, breast, and body aesthetics
  • Specialized tracks on non-invasive procedures, complications, and new technologies
  • CME-accredited education for surgeons and aesthetic professionals
  • AlliedPro® programs for injectors, skincare providers, and practice managers
  • Networking events, live demonstrations, and an extensive exhibitor showcase

Beyond its flagship meeting, The Aesthetic Society also hosts smaller symposia such as Aesthetic Interactive, Facial & Rhinoplasty meetings, and The Aesthetic Cruise, offering targeted learning experiences throughout the year.

Attending The Aesthetic MEET keeps members and their teams at the forefront of aesthetic innovation, safety, and patient care excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Aesthetic Society the same as ASAPS?

Yes. The Aesthetic Society was formerly known as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). The organization rebranded to reflect its modern, global focus on aesthetic innovation and education.

Who can become a member of The Aesthetic Society?

Membership is limited to board-certified plastic surgeons (ABPS or RCPSC) who demonstrate advanced training, experience, and ethical standards in aesthetic surgery. International membership is available for qualified surgeons outside North America.

Does The Aesthetic Society offer resources for non-surgeons or med spa professionals?

While membership is exclusive to surgeons, non-surgical professionals can access education through AlliedPro® programs, offered during The Aesthetic MEET and select symposia.

What publications are affiliated with The Aesthetic Society?

The organization publishes the Aesthetic Surgery Journal (ASJ) and ASJ Open Forum, both peer-reviewed journals featuring research, case studies, and advancements in cosmetic and reconstructive techniques.

How can I learn more about upcoming events or educational opportunities?

You can explore conferences, CME courses, and member education at theaestheticsociety.org, which lists current meeting schedules and training resources year-round.

How ClinicGrower Builds on This Standard

Just as The Aesthetic Society sets the benchmark for ethics, education, and innovation in aesthetic surgery, ClinicGrower helps practices grow with the same commitment to integrity and excellence.

Our work aligns with the Society’s mission—supporting evidence-based growth, patient safety, and long-term trust between providers and patients.

How ClinicGrower supports that vision:

  • Reputation-first growth: We help surgeons and aesthetic practices expand visibility while maintaining professional credibility.
  • Education-driven marketing: Every strategy is grounded in data, research, and transparent results.
  • Ethical promotion: Campaigns follow medical marketing standards, reflecting the quality of care our clients deliver.

ClinicGrower empowers aesthetic professionals to grow sustainably—building practices that lead with trust and expertise.

Learn More About The Author

Bref McHugh is a seasoned entrepreneur and visionary business builder. As the co-owner of ClinicGrower, he spearheads the #1 Growth Marketing agency for medical and aesthetic practices in America.

We’re trying to make growing your medical, dental, or aesthetic practice a whole lot easier, quicker, less stressful, and more fun!

More Content From Our Learning Lounge

Top Tips, Tools, Innovation, and Information to Successfully
Scale Your Practice

The Proven Systems, Support & Reliable ROI You REALLY Need to Scale Your Practice Profitably. Multi-channel marketing, automation, and clinical conversion to attract the right patients to your practice on autopilot.

1906 North Armenia Avenue, Suite 203, Tampa, FL 33607

© 2024 ClinicGrower. All rights reserved.

Growth Marketing For Medical & Aesthetic Practices

Scroll to Top