As more and more people turn to cosmetic enhancements and plastic surgery to improve their appearance the latest trend reports show that age really is just a number. Aging gracefully has become a top priority for baby boomers, especially those who are approaching their 50s – and beyond.  

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS), the 2007 survey results show that an increasing number baby boomers and the aging population are heading to the doctor’s office for more treatments than ever before. The statistical reports show that baby boomers, who account for almost 28% of the national population pursuing plastic and cosmetic surgery, fall into the 42+ age category for most procedures, have experienced a two to three year increase in age.

Medical News Today also reports that:  “there has been a 13.7% increase in the percentage of men from 2002 to 2007 who have had cosmetic surgery, showing a growing trend among men. Among patients treated, 80% were women and 20% were male.” (Source: MedicalNewsToday.com)  

Men and women are heading to the doctor’s office to get rid of love handles, remove wrinkles and fine lines, and improve the contours of the face. According to the 2007 Procedural Data, the following surgical and non-surgical procedures filled up the appointment books of many surgery centers across the country:  

Surgical Procedures  

Liposuction – a popular procedure for baby boomers in their 40s and 50s, liposuction for both the face and body can help remove stubborn fatty deposits and recontour the treatment area. Liposuction technologies that involve laser treatments and ultrasound are a few innovative options that can provide dramatic, long-lasting results.  

Sclerotherapy – spider vein removal treatments can smooth out the legs and arms to create a more youthful look. After vein removal, a skin resurfacing procedure can also help smooth the skin and buff away the signs of aging.  

Blepharoplasty – reshaping the upper or lower eyelid by removing fatty deposits and excess skin tissue, this procedure can provide dramatic results. Baby boomers pursuing blepharoplasty can combine this procedure with non-surgical treatments such as microdermabrasion or injectable fillers to further enhance the contours of the face.  

Non-Surgical Procedures  

BOTOX – as the leading non-surgical procedure in 2007, BOTOX injections continue to be the top choice for both men and women. BOTOX injections help remove wrinkles on the forehead and can also be used to treat crow’s feet.  

Microdermabrasion – a series of microdermabrasion treatments can buff away scars, patches of skin discoloration and fine lines for a smoother, more youthful look. Microdermabrasion is a relatively low cost procedure that can provide lasting results; it can also be combined with other facial rejuvenation treatments such as injectable fillers and acne scar removal treatments.  

Chemical Peels – a valuable way to boost collagen production in aging skin, chemical peels help increase cell turnover and make skin appear firmer and more resilient. Chemical peels can be combined with other facial rejuvenation treatments for a ‘mini-makeover.’  

From microdermabrasion to liposuction, the aging population is leading some of today’s top cosmetic and plastic surgery trends. If you think you’re a good candidate for a mini-makeover, consider your options with our cosmetic surgery informational guide, or schedule a consultation with a doctor in your area to learn more about a procedure that fits your needs.