To Wait or Not to Wait: Cosmetic Surgery Later in Life
A recent article from the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) suggests that people who wait to get married and have children later in life also postpone cosmetic surgery, like facelift procedures. While ASAPS speculates that patients postpone cosmetic surgery due to factors like budget or because of an empty nest, their statistics show that patients are, in fact, delaying elective cosmetic procedures.
In fact, from 2005 to 2010, nonsurgical and surgical cosmetic procedures rose 29% among patients ages 65 and older while the total number of cosmetic procedures overall from 2005 to 2010 fell 17%. While the specific reasons for waiting are still being studied, the fact remains that more plastic surgery patients are holding off on surgery. ASAPS’ article also suggests that it may have something to do with the fact that people are living and working longer and think of cosmetic surgery like a facelift or blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) as an investment for their future.
Although it’s not mentioned in the ASAPS article, “mini” facelifts and minimally invasive facial rejuvenation procedures may be one reason patients are waiting until they are older for a traditional facelift. These days, people see cosmetic treatment more as a means for prevention and maintenance. Rather than waiting until they need all-over rejuvenation, patients start using cosmetic injectables or even undergoing partial facelift surgeries as they need them. For instance, a person with deep wrinkles and creases on their forehead could benefit from a forehead lift, which only targets their area of concern. Likewise, a patient whose signs of aging are most evident in the lower part of their face may benefit first from neck lift surgery.
Whatever your cosmetic concerns or aesthetic goals, the highly skilled surgeons of Atlanta Plastic Surgery offer a variety of procedures to meet Atlantan’s needs. Be sure to review our website and continue to read our blog for plastic surgery news and updates.
