There was a time when plastic surgery was a luxury afforded mainly by the rich and famous. In recent times, it has become common practice for anyone, regardless of status, to reap the benefits of cosmetic procedures. Both men and women are actively seeking a more youthful appearance. This may be due to the fact that people are living longer, more active lifestyles. The current trends lean toward health, fitness and longevity. Many people are even starting families later in life. The desire to look and feel younger, longer, is a strong part of modern culture.

What types of plastic surgery are elderly candidates seeking?

Popular procedures like breast augmentation, facelifts, and brow lifts are of particular interest to patients over the age of 65 in Scottsdale. Many surgeons are treating elderly patients, but not without raising concerns about the amount of risk involved with this demographic. Recent studies have shown that plastic surgery may be worth the risks for some seniors. Here are some findings posted by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery:

• In 2010, almost 85,000 candidates over 65 have consulted with a plastic surgeon.
• Over 26,000 of those individuals elected to have facelifts.
• Almost 25,000 chose eyelid surgery.
• Liposuction was performed on 6,400 of those candidates.
• About 6,000 had breast reduction surgeries.

Fewer elderly patients opted for forehead lifts, and breast augmentations or lifts. However, the numbers for those procedures are steadily growing. Dr. Pamela Henderson performs several cosmetic procedures for seniors in Scottsdale to help bring back a glimpse of the past you.

Are there more risks for older patients who undergo cosmetic procedures?

Older patients seeking elective surgery generally have more medical problems than younger candidates. They are much more likely to be on a regular medication regime. This may negatively impact the results of surgery. Cosmetic surgery isn’t essential for health. There are many factors to consider before any cosmetic procedure is performed.

Additional research has shown that when patients are screened properly before being approved for surgery, the risk is not significantly greater. Several variables, co-morbidities and the overall state of health were examined in The Cleveland Study. What was found to be most important was not the patient’s age. The increased risk comes with poor health, no matter what age. Excluding candidates with medical conditions that impose more risk is a necessary practice, not just because they may be older.

Older patients that are in good health, tend to have more expendable wealth to spend on indulgences. Younger candidates often need to borrow from loved ones, take out loans, or max credit cards. Seniors are more likely to weigh all of the risks and pay out of pocket. Dr. Pamela Henderson can help seniors in Scottsdale come up with a plan on how to reach their goals.

If you have questions about whether or not you or someone you know is a candidate for plastic surgery at an advanced age, please contact Dr. Pamela Henderson either online or at (480) 596-6886 to schedule your consultation.