Can You Be Too Old for Plastic Surgery?

by April Maguire

Plastic surgery is more popular today than ever been before, with doctors performing more than 15 million cosmetic procedures in the United States last year alone. While that popularity has risen across all demographics, one group in particular has increasingly been looking to plastic surgery as a way to turn back the clock: senior citizens. But how safe is cosmetic enhancement for seniors, and how old is too old for plastic surgery?

Patients Are Getting Older

According to recent statistics, patients between the ages of 51 and 64 accounted for more than 24% of the plastic surgery procedures that doctors performed last year. Additionally, men and women over the age of 65 made up a staggering 8% of the patients that plastic surgeons treated in 2014. Even more amazing is the fact that this number is nearly double what it was just five years ago.

There are a number of reasons for this trend toward older surgical patients. The population in the United States is getting older, as more and more Baby Boomers reach the age of retirement. And with advances in modern medicine and the emphasis on healthy living, people are maintaining active lifestyles well into their 70s and 80s.

Despite being older, seniors request largely the same types of procedures that traditional plastic surgery patients do. For surgical procedures, the most popular options among seniors are breast lifts, liposuction, eyelid reshaping and facelifts. And when it comes to non-surgical procedures, the most popular choice is Botox injections.

How Old Is Too Old?

When it comes to seniors going under the knife, the biggest prohibitive factor isn’t age; it’s health. Seniors who have experienced previous medical issues, such as a stroke or heart attack, are discouraged from undergoing cosmetic surgery. In general though, as long as doctors determine you’re healthy, you’re a good candidate for plastic surgery.

For seniors that are considering plastic surgery, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. First of all, maintain reasonable expectations. No plastic surgeon, however qualified, can take decades off your appearance and make you look 35 again. Secondly, be sure to maintain an open dialogue with your doctor. Communicate any questions or concerns that you have and follow your doctor’s advice to the letter.

Even though plastic surgery may be no more dangerous for healthy seniors than for anybody else, it’s important to remember that it’s still risky. Before getting any kind of cosmetic procedure done, do your homework and find a qualified doctor that will best serve your needs.

If you or someone you know would like more information about healthy skin, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!

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Can You Be Too Old for Plastic Surgery?

by April Maguire

Patients Are Getting Older

How Old Is Too Old?

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