In recent years, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons has reported a consistent rise in the number of adults aged 55 and up obtaining plastic surgery procedures. Between 2012 and 2013 alone, the increase in cosmetic procedures amounted to 4%, which translates to an increase of 3.8 million procedures performed just in that year.

Getting Work Done in “The Golden Years. . .” Does it Make Sense?

Baby Boomers seek cosmetic procedures, both surgical and non-surgical, for a number of reasons. It is natural to want to look good at any age. With a higher number of older adults remaining active in their profession, as well as the dating scene, appearance continues to be an important factor in self-confidence and in social and professional interaction.

Appearance is important, period. This does not change as we age. The human tendency is to assess others and form a near-immediate response. The quickness of this mental processing relies on facial expression, even those that are perceived, for first impressions. An example of this tendency can be found in recent research in which participants observed images of women before and after facial plastic surgery. In the Before images, women were perceived as older and unfriendly due to concerns such as heavy eyelids or downturned corners of the mouth. Observing After images, participants responded favorably to the friendly appearance of the same women.

So what are Boomers Getting Done?

There are five procedures that are popular among the over-55 population. These include facelift surgery, the forehead lift (upper facelift), ear reshaping, hair restoration surgery (transplantation), and, believe it or not, pectoral implants. Additionally, patients of all ages continue to seek nose reshaping with rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, and body contouring procedures such as liposuction and abdominoplasty. Plastic surgeons report seeing women into their sixties and seventies for tummy tuck surgery. So while the primary focus seems to be on facial rejuvenation, there are also a good number of patients who are tending to neglected bodies.

The Toll of Working

When we are in the midst of our career and family years, it can be difficult to devote the time and resources necessary to keep the face and body looking good. Many patients report letting their body and their teeth go during the decades in which they are working their way up the corporate ladder or raising children. In retirement, there is finally time to address concerns that have developed over these years.

Whatever your age, you deserve to feel good about your appearance. To learn more about the procedures available to you, contact Ong Institute.