In 2015, senior citizens lead more active lifestyles than ever. And, as Pittsburgh Baby Boomers age, more and more people over the age of 55 are turning to plastic surgery so that they can look as young as they feel.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, patients 55 and over sought 3,913,596 cosmetic procedures in 2014, making up 26 percent of the year’s total.
That number is likely to rise for years to come. Life expectancy for Americans, currently pegged around 82 years old, is projected to continue to rise. By 2029, people 65 and older are expected to make up about 20 percent of the US population. We’re also working longer. According to Gallup, 37 percent of Americans expect to retire after the age of 65 – in 1995, this number was only 14 percent.
So, with more people over the age of 55 living more active lifestyles, it makes sense that more of us are interested in looking younger. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular procedures:
#1: Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
99,878 Procedures in 2014
27 Percent of Total
For many people over 55, age is all in the eyes. As our skin gets older and becomes less elastic, our eyelids may begin to droop and we may start to develop noticeable bags under our eyes. Not only does this make us look older, but we start to look like we’re tired all the time.
Blepharoplasty is a relatively simple surgery designed to address this problem. Excess skin and fat are removed from the eyelids, and what remains is sculpted by the surgeon. Compared to many other surgeries, it’s extremely safe and minimally invasive; most people return to their normal lifestyles within a week after surgery.
#2: Facelift (rhytidectomy)
84,083 Procedures in 2014
23 Percent of Total
Wrinkles are the most noticeable sign of our skin aging. Our skin sags and starts to show the effects of sun exposure and our changing bodies. Wrinkles begin to form, one seemingly popping up right after the other. Before we know it, we look in the mirror and realize we look much older than we realized.
Facelifts address this problem directly. During a facelift, your skin is surgically tightened to account for the effects of aging, helping to eliminate wrinkles and promote a more youthful appearance. There are different types of facelifts for different needs, from the traditional facelift to the short scar mini-facelift, which pairs well with liposuction.
#3: Dermabrasion
33,694 Procedures in 2014
9 Percent of Total
As you may already know, the top, superficial layer of our skin is often made up of tons of dead skin cells and other imperfections. It’s more prone to wrinkles, lines and even discoloration. It’s older and it shows.
Dermabrasion is used to remove this top layer of skin so that healthier, newer skin can come to the surface. Your surgeon simply uses a device to surgically exfoliate your face – your body does the rest on its own.
#4: Forehead Lifts
23,551 Procedures in 2014
6 Percent of Total
Wrinkles on the forehead can be very, very visible. The skin on your forehead is creased and wrinkled with nearly every expression. Over time, this can lead to serious signs of aging.
Forehead lifts, also known as brow lifts, are similar to facelifts but much more targeted. The skin on your forehead is smoothed, reducing wrinkles across the forehead as well as the bridge of your nose. Your eyebrows will also be lifted, creating a more youthful and alert look.
#5: Lower Body Lifts
21,581 Procedures in 2014
5.8 Percent of Total
As we age, it’s not uncommon to lose serious amounts of weight. On top of our skin losing its elasticity, this can lead to excess sagging in the torso and waist. For people over the age of 55, especially those who live active lifestyles, this can be difficult to deal with. No amount of diet, exercise or healthy living can really address sagging, excess skin.
Lower body lifts cater to these needs. The surgeon removes the excess skin and reshapes the body to promote a younger and more toned appearance. This kind of procedures gives people a chance to redefine their bodies that otherwise they would not get.
The takeaway here is that, with all the advances in plastic surgery, you can get closer to your ideal body at any age. If you don’t feel old, then why shouldn’t you look young? Call us to learn more or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Wooten.