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06-19-2019

More baby boomers are getting cosmetic procedures for online dating

According to new statistics released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more Americans aged 55 and older are seeking out cosmetic procedures. Compared to 2017, nearly 50,000 more procedures were performed on patients in this age group in 2018.

“I’ve definitely noticed more baby boomers making appointments to explore which procedures can help them look as young as they feel,” said Dr. Anne Taylor. “They’re not necessarily looking to turn back the clock to their twenties, but just to make some subtle changes to put their best face forward.”

“For example, a lot of my patients have expressed concerns about their neck or double chin, especially when it comes to looking downward to take a photo or video chat on their phones.”

According to Dr. Taylor, this particular generation is interested in a wide range of procedures, both surgical and minimally invasive.

The statistics show that surgeries such as liposuction, hair transplantation, and breast augmentation were popular among older patients in 2018. In addition, minor procedures such as Botox and fillers also increased significantly among individuals aged 55 and older.

For 55-year-old Jody Pinkerton, a tummy tuck and breast augmentation gave her the confidence to create an online dating profile in order to meet new people after her divorce.

“Online dating can be scary, and you really need to be able to put yourself out there,” said Pinkerton. “People are initially judging you on a few photos, and I wanted to make sure I could have current photos that really represented who I am and made a good first impression.”

“My boomer patients are confident and accomplished men and women, and they just want to look in the mirror and see the person they feel they are inside,” said Dr. Taylor. “Finding the right cosmetic procedures can give them that extra boost of confidence when venturing into a new chapter of their lives.”

Overall, 66 percent of all facelifts in 2018 were performed on patients 55 and older, along with 48 percent of all eyelid surgeries.

“It’s a trend that’s showing a shift in our culture,” said Dr. Alan Matarasso, who is the president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. “Older Americans are vibrant and living their lives to the fullest, and they want the way they look to reflect that. That’s where a board-certified plastic surgeon can help.”

Dr. Matarasso emphasized the importance of selecting a board-certified surgeon for the most rigorous safety and ethical standards.

“Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is critical to your safety, your comfort and your happiness. There are a lot of choices when it comes to cosmetic procedures, and the extensive training that these doctors go through allows them to offer a full spectrum of options as well as the latest technology to find the very best plan to reach the goals of each individual.”

By Chrissy Sexton, Earth.com Staff Writer

Image Credit: American Society of Plastic Surgeons

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