We’ve all heard of the Baby Boomers, that generation of Americans born post–World War II, between the years 1946 and 1964. Their sheer numbers have influenced our country, our tastes and our trends, especially when it comes to staying as young as possible for as long as possible.
Reaching retirement age hasn’t changed that goal
Baby Boomers have not given up their desire to feel and look younger, even as they’ve gotten into their 60s, 70, 80s and older. And whether you believe that or not, the proof is in the numbers – the corresponding cosmetic surgery numbers that say more seniors than ever are having procedures.
But what about the risks?
Some people, perhaps the children or grand children of Baby Boomers, if not the Boomers themselves, have wondered if it’s safe for older people to undergo cosmetic plastic surgery procedures.
Medical professionals and researchers wondered, too
Vanderbilt University and the University of Alabama, Birmingham researchers designed a study to compare the occurrence of post-elective surgery complications in patients 65 years of age and older, as compared to younger patients.
The results might be surprising to everyone
The researchers reviewed over 180,000 cosmetic surgery procedures to compare complications in elderly (65 and older) and younger patients (median age of 39). They also did a separate analysis of postop complications among octogenarian patients (80 and older).
The researchers found that there was no significant difference in the post-op complication rate between the elderly and the younger patients, with the exception of abdominoplasty (tummy tucks), which had a slightly higher complication rate in the elderly group. Most surprising, however, was that the overall complication rate in the octogenarian group was not significantly different (higher) from the younger group, either.
Good news for all of us, now and as we age
Surgical techniques and technology continue to improve, which makes procedures safer for all of us. The popularity of non-surgical procedures is also allowing us to improve our appearance with less concern, especially as we get older. Talk to us about the best methods for improving your appearance by scheduling a consultation today: (760) 240-2444.