Lifelong Beauty: Cosmetic Surgery Options For Every Age
Once an individual reaches physical maturity, it’s never too early or too late to use cosmetic procedures to address any body asymmetry or skin imperfections. As you age, however, it may become harder to know what procedures are most recommended for your age group. Knowing what is popular among other patients your age can help you save time and money in your quest for a more youthful appearance. Keep in mind that there is no “best” time to have any procedure; your cosmetic needs are unique, no matter what your age!
Young Adults (19-34)
Fresh-faced young people are most likely to be concerned with small imperfections like body proportions and facial imbalances. Women in this age group are responsible for the largest percentage of breast augmentation surgeries, while the entire group makes up for the majority of rhinoplasty (nose jobs) performed. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, two of the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedures among young adults are microdermabrasion and laser hair removal. Young adults are also often interested in maintenance procedures such as Botox®, facial fillers, and even facelifts or mini-facelifts.
Middle Age (35-50)
Middle-aged adults often seek skin- and body-altering procedures designed to help turn back the hands of time and the effects of parenthood. This age group undergoes more plastic surgery than any other and, likely because the age group coincides with the end of a woman’s childbearing years, makes up the bulk of “mommy makeover” surgeries. A mommy makeover is a surgical combination procedure in the form of a breast surgery (lift, augmentation, or reduction), a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), and liposuction intended to help undo the stretching and sagging effects of pregnancy on the body. Skin resurfacing is also common among middle-aged adults, particularly in the form of chemical peels and laser treatments.
Mature (50+)
After age 50, significant signs of aging are usually present and many individuals opt for cosmetic procedures, such as blepharoplasty (eyebrow lift), eyelid surgery, and facelifts, which help tighten and smooth the skin. After age 65 or so, sagging skin is commonly addressed even further with a neck lift, which includes liposuction to firm up neck muscles and sutures to hold those muscles in place. Over a 10-year period, cosmetic surgery among mature adults rose a staggering 79% to over 760,000.
No matter your age, it’s crucial to educate yourself on the potential risks and benefits and to set realistic expectations. To learn more about any of the cosmetic procedures discussed here, please contact our office. Don’t forget to connect with me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott, on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ to stay up to date on the latest in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
(Note: The information above was taken from an infographic on the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery website. View the infographic here.)
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