Health And Wellbeing For The Over 50s

Recent figures from BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) show that cosmetic surgery remains popular for people in the UK.

Increasingly, we’re looking to surgical procedures to help us achieve the face and body that we want. With a staggering array of cosmetic treatments available, there’s seemingly an operation for every part of our bodies; from replacing lost hair to removing unwanted love-handles. With such a wide range of options on offer, it’s no surprise that many people are tempted to consider a cosmetic procedure.

In 2013, over 50,000 people in the UK had cosmetic surgery, which equates to around 1 in 1,000 adults across the country. Of those, an increasing number are over the age of 50. A poll undertaken by Nuffield Health shows that 60% of British cosmetic surgeons have noticed a rise in older people looking to improve their appearance, with overall demand in the over-65 age group increasing by 50% since 2007.

Cosmetic Treatments Available

There is a huge variety of treatments available in the UK. In 2013, the country saw a 41% rise in liposuction procedures, indicating that for many, removing excess fat is a top priority. Breast augmentation, or the ‘boob job’ as it is more colloquially known, remains perennially popular and is still Britain’s most requested cosmetic operation.

However, there are treatments for several other parts of the body, from calf reductions to rhinoplasty (‘nose jobs’), from eye bag removal to face lifts. In fact, for every part of the body that shows signs of ageing or excess weight, there’s generally a treatment to improve it.

Understanding the Facts

Many cosmetic clinics sell the ‘dream’ – the slimmer figure, the larger breasts, the tighter skin. However, it’s important to understand the reality of cosmetic treatment before you book. Although many procedures enjoy a good success rate in terms of physical results, there are risks involved; as there are with any form of surgery. You should also consider the possibility that the image you’ve got in your head may not match up to the reality after the procedure.

It’s important to think about why you want the surgery. It’s perfectly acceptable to seek to modify your body – if you want to. However, if there are problematic root causes for your desire to do so, such as poor self-esteem or body dysmorphia, surgery may not be the solution for you. Likewise, it’s imperative that you have realistic expectations about the results and make your decision in a fully informed manner.

This guide seeks to help answer your questions about cosmetic surgery; with useful information such as how to find the right surgeon and what questions to ask before your operation, to details about the risks involved and natural alternatives to going under the knife.

We hope that it helps you make an informed decision before surgery and provides you with the answers to all your most important questions.