Anti-ageing botox boom amongst older generation
Growing numbers of older people are opting for cosmetic surgery procedures, according to new research.
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery found that the number of procedures carried out on those aged 65 or over rose by 29 per cent between 2005 and last year, totalling over 680,000.
This rise in elective procedures amongst the older generation flew in the face of the overall trend which saw procedures fall by 17 per cent.
The reasons behind the increasing interest in cosmetic surgery amongst older people are many and varied. Some simply have more disposable income than previous generations had at their age, and are keen to spend their hard earned money on something for themselves.
Some are eager to boost their appearance and self-confidence following a divorce or prior to a planned return to the dating scene.
David Sarwer, associate professor of psychology at the University of Pennsylvania and cosmetic procedure researcher for the university's Center for Human Appearance, told Fox News, “Many have the attitude: With people living longer, I want to do everything I can to enjoy the years I have left.”
The most popular treatments amongst older people include non-surgical procedures, such as botox injections and fillers to smooth away wrinkles and fine lines.
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reported that this type of work accounted for 88 per cent of all of the cosmetic procedures carried out on those aged 65 and older.
Another reason is that people want to look their best for an important occasion, such as their child's wedding day. Los Angeles-based cosmetic surgeon Dr Babak Azizzadeh told Harley Street Medical, “I have seen a lot of mothers of the bride or groom come in for anti-ageing treatments so that they can look their best on their child’s wedding day.
“Many of their parents are unhappy with their appearance and are very interested in anti-ageing treatments,” added Dr Azizzadeh.
