You’re Never Too Old to Feel Beautiful

Baby Boomers have proven to be a transformative generation throughout their lives, and now, as they age into their “golden years,” they are transforming the concept of aging. Not content to “go gentle into that good night,” Boomers are focusing on a healthy and active lifestyle and are considering rejuvenating cosmetic procedures to help them to look as youthful as they feel on the inside.

Cosmetic Surgery Options

With the rise in senior activity levels and expected longevity has come a noticeable increase in the numbers of seniors seeking cosmetic surgery. In fact, according to statistics collated by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the numbers of people age 65 and older gettin facelifts and similar procedures has increased by more than 1,200 percent in the past 20 years, with much of that increase occurring over the past five years. In fact, while patients in the 35-50 year-old age group remain the largest plastic surgery patient base, patients older than 65 are the fastest growing group seeking both surgical and non-surgical procedures. Gardner Plastic Surgery located in Naples, Florida has experienced this trend, as well, and Dr. Paul Gardner believes that patient satisfaction levels in seniors are similar to those seen from younger patients.

Risk Profile for Cosmetic Surgery for Seniors Similar to Younger Patients

Age does not seem to be a factor in safety and complication rates of cosmetic surgery, as studies have shown that the rates are the same for seniors as it is for the younger generations. In fact, a recent study of safety rates of plastic surgery on octogenarians (those 80 and older), only demonstrated a “slightly higher”—and statistically insignificant—complication rate in comparison to rates expressed by all younger patient age groups. As long as the patient is in good overall health, risks associated with cosmetic surgery procedures remain low. Thus, plastic surgeons tend to focus more on existing medical conditions when considering their senior patients’ cosmetic surgery options, rather than patient age.

Numerous Factors Driving Increase in Senior Cosmetic Surgery Rates

The increasing numbers of seniors exploring cosmetic surgery options should not come as a surprise. First off, the massive number of Baby Boomers combined with increased longevity means that one out of five Americans will be over the age of 65 by 2030. And many of these Americans are staying physically fit much later in life, which creates a disconnect between how they look and how they feel. More and more Americans are also staying in the workforce past age 65, and some perceive cosmetic surgery as a means of fending off potential age discrimination.

Gardner Plastic Surgery Serves Patients of All Ages

Bottom line is that rates for most surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures have been increasing among all age groups and both sexes for the past 20 years, with rates for those over age 65 showing among the largest proportional growth. Gardner Plastic Surgery has witnessed this growth and has extensive experience treating patients of all ages. Dr. Paul Gardner is renowned for his surgical skills at both facial and body contouring, but is also attuned to providing patients benefits that can be realized from less invasive treatment options. Whatever your age and whatever cosmetic refinement you seek, our practice can help you determine the best options for achieving your goals. To learn more about what Dr. Gardner can do for you, contact Gardner Plastic Surgery today at 239.566.2611 to schedule your initial consultation.