What’s the Best Age for Cosmetic Surgery?

The best age for cosmetic surgery for some people is when they are in there 60s, 70s and even 80s, according to The New York Times. For those in good health, like an 83-year-old woman who recently had a breast lift with implants, it’s never too late to consider cosmetic surgery.

Experts say that more people 65 and older are turning to cosmetic surgery, a trend likely to continue as baby boomers begin to pass 65.

There are many reasons these older patients undergo cosmetic surgery. Many are living longer and staying healthy, so they want their bodies to reflect that. Others are dating and want to look their best, and some are still working and want to be seen as more youthful.

Mary Graham, a 77-year-old profiled in the Times article, recently had a facelift and breast implants. She said the only time she goes to the doctor is for cosmetic procedures.

Ms. Graham still works seven days a week and said, “I wanted to look as young as I feel.”

Cosmetic Surgery at an Older Age

There are concerns from some about the safety of performing elective surgery on older patients: it may take longer for these patients to heal, and the results may not last as long as in younger patients.

However, some studies have shown that properly screened older patients don’t have higher risks. For instance, researchers at the Cleveland Clinic found no significant difference in the instances of complications between a group of older facelift patients (average age 70) and a younger group (average age 57.6).

No matter what age you are at when considering cosmetic surgery, your surgeon will discuss potential risks at your consultation prior to surgery.