How Old Is Too Old for Plastic Surgery?

Many people will not consider facial plastic surgery or breast and body contouring procedures because they think they are too old. This question really can be broken down into two aspects; health and attitude.

Health

A very important consideration in undergoing plastic surgery is a person’s health, regardless of their age. We have treated many men and women who were in their 70s and 80s for cosmetic procedures who were quite healthy. Alternatively, we have discouraged the pursuit of cosmetic surgical procedures in patients who were not healthy enough to undergo them. We offer less invasive procedures for these patients when appropriate, such as Ultherapy® to tighten the skin or CoolSculpting to reduce pockets of fat.

We decide jointly (the physician and the patient) what is most appropriate for any particular patient but never jeopardize the patient’s health. We will often obtain the medical opinion of their family doctor, internist or cardiologist to assess their health status and ability to successfully undergo a procedure.

A 2015 study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal found that most cosmetic procedures are just as safe for older patients—even those in their 80s—as they are for younger patients.

Attitude

Your attitude is also a very important factor in deciding to have a cosmetic procedure performed. People are living longer and maintaining healthier lifestyles than in the past. They tend to persist in work and physical activities rather than be arbitrarily slowed by the accumulation of years. They have a young attitude and want their bodies and faces to match the youthful way they feel. These people seek out the benefits that plastic surgery has to offer.

If you feel old, regardless of your age, and feel that old people should look and act their age, you may not have the attitude even to consider a cosmetic procedure. In order to appreciate the benefits of having a cosmetic procedure that may make you look better and feel better, you truly need the proper attitude. When asked how he stays so active and healthy at the age of 87, Clint Eastwood said, “Just don’t let the old man in!”

That’s the attitude!

If you’re interested in exploring your plastic surgery options, request a consultation using our online form or call us at (717) 728-1700 to schedule an appointment.