At Costhetics, we believe you’re never too old to look your best, and it appears that many Baby Boomers agree. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, in 2010 there were 84,685 surgical procedures among patients age 65 and older in the US.
In addition to nearly 26,000 facelifts and 24,000 cosmetic eyelid operations, American seniors opted for
- 5,874 breast reductions
- 3,339 breast lifts
- 2,414 breast augmentations
If you’re a senior and in generally good health, don’t hesitate to meet with a qualified professional to discuss enhancing your breasts.
What defines “good health” when it comes to having breast reduction or breast enhancement? A good senior candidate for these procedures should be free of underlying medical conditions that could pose a risk, such as
- Poorly controlled blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Obesity
These health conditions can create problems primarily because of anaesthesia concerns.
Breast reduction surgery for seniors
According to a new study published in the December issue of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery magazine, infections following breast reduction surgery are most common in women older than 50.
“The risk of infection is roughly 2.5 times greater in patients over the age of 50, compared to patients under the age of 40.” – Dr. Leslie H. Stevens, Beverly Hills plastic surgeon
Researchers believe that declining hormone levels may be to blame for the increased risk of infection. They also noted that an increase in body mass index (BMI) was likely to increase the risk of infection, and that older patients are more likely to have an increased BMI.
Does this mean that women over 40 with over-developed breasts must resign themselves to back pain, posture problems, and difficulty finding clothing that fits? Absolutely not!
Breast reduction is one of the most commonly performed breast surgeries, and the overall risk is generally low. Furthermore, the risk of infection can be minimised with intravenous antibiotics before the surgery starts and oral antibiotics after the surgery is completed.
Breast augmentation surgery for seniors
Though most of his older patients seek anti-ageing facial work, Dr. Norman Rowe of NYC says he is performing more and more breast lift procedures on older women. “They don’t want larger breasts, they just don’t want them hanging by their knees,” he explains. “They look better in a bra and shirt and don’t need a bathing suit with support.”
But is it safe for seniors? The answer is yes. Breast augmentation is a pretty straightforward operation and involves minimal risks when performed by a certified surgeon who has performed many in the past.
“There are no increased risks of implants in older women. The only possibility of increased risk is with the surgery if you have a medical condition that anaesthesia could affect. If you are past menopause and not on hormone replacement therapy, with no medical problems, your risks are actually less than a younger woman on birth control pills.” Dr. Robert Buchanan, North Carolina plastic surgeon
Many women choose breast augmentation later in life for a good reason. Women over 50 are often empty nesters enjoying newly achieved financial security. With the obligations of active parenting behind them, they’re free to pursue the aesthetic enhancements they have always wanted.
There’s another good reason to choose breast augmentation: Self-esteem. This internal phenomenon manifests itself on the outside with women walking taller, prouder, and with more confidence following breast augmentation.
Finally, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reported that after undergoing breast augmentation, 34% of the senior women that participated in a research study reported being more satisfied with their sex lives.