For an increasing number of people over the age of 55, growing old gracefully is taking on a new meaning. Though accepting changes in appearance used to be the norm, now many people are taking steps to enhance or improve. For many, that means invasive and non-invasive cosmetic surgery procedures. In fact, these procedures increased in popularity among the 55-plus set by 50,000 in 2018 alone!
Dr. Randy Sanovich is a cosmetic surgeon based in Dallas, Texas. He believes the rising popularity of procedures for the baby boomer generation can be attributed to several things.
“With young people, the motivation for plastic surgery seems to be selfies, but it’s not the same for middle-aged people,” he says. “They are looking for an edge in their careers and in their personal lives.”
With more people retiring later than in previous generations, the competition at some workplaces can be fierce. Gone are the days when looking distinguished earned you brownie points – now it’s all about embracing youth and technology. But many older Americans find it hard when they look older than they feel.
“Cosmetic procedures can help you feel as youthful on the outside as you do on the inside,” says Sanovich.
But that’s not all. According to Sanovich, the old stigma about cosmetic procedures simply isn’t there anymore.
“Generation X and the millennials have already realized that cosmetic surgery and procedures are nothing to be ashamed about, and a lot of that old stigma is gone,” he says. “I think people in previous generations are seeing that and thinking, ‘Why not me?’”
So, should you consider a cosmetic procedure for yourself? Sanovich says it’s a great way to take control of your appearance – and your self-esteem.
“I want my patients to look and feel their best,” he says. “There’s no shame in wanting to improve your appearance at any age, and there are many ways to do it.”
According to Sanovich, that includes not just cosmetic surgery but other, less invasive cosmetic procedures.
“At my practice, you can get a full face-lift, a brow-lift, or another facial procedure, or you can go the less invasive route and opt for Botox, fillers, and treatments like the CO2 laser or the Profound RF,” he says. “Any of these procedures can help create that more youthful, healthy appearance.”