Elderly rejuvenating
Private consultant surgeons are reporting a surge in the number of people aged over 65 having cosmetic surgery in the UK.
Nuffield Health’s first plastic surgery insight survey from 31 hospitals reveals 64% of surgeons reported a rise in older people seeking surgery.
The hospital group’s patient figures paint the same picture, with patients aged over 65 up by 49% in 2014 from 2007.
Eight-two per cent of the surgeons reported more men seeking cosmetic surgery in the form of nose jobs, eyelid lifts and ‘man boob’ removal.
Ninety-five per cent saw a rise in the number of previously overweight or obese patients looking for surgery after dramatic weight loss.
Mr Ian Whitworth, consultant plastic surgeon at Nuffield Health Bournemouth, said: ‘I’m now seeing many more people in their 60s, 70s and even their 80s seeking plastic surgery, as they not only want to remain fit and healthy into their old age but they want to look well too.
‘I think this trend will continue as this is an expanding age-group.’
Fifteen years ago, surgery on men was ‘very rare’, but now they make up 10-15% of his patients.
Consultants were asked about penis extensions, buttock implants and even a forked tongue. But most patients wanted a natural look.
All surgeons agreed a key motivator for most patients was the desire to improve self-confidence.
What cosmetic surgeons found
95% expect an increase in male patients
82% expect to see more elderly people
Most thought plastic surgery would increasingly become the norm – many view it as the norm already in most parts of the UK
Becoming more commonplace: face transplants, light-weight breast implants and mid face lifts