Did you know that people over 50 years old accounted for about one-third of plastic surgery procedures (2007, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery)? This is proof that nearly every relatively healthy adult can be considered for liposuction at Smart Lipo! Of course, individuals interested in it have to undergo a rigorous screening process that includes face-to-face interviews, analysis of medical history, and a battery of laboratory tests.
But how old is too old for it? Let’s take a look at the factors that affect your suitability for liposuction, age-wise.
Differences in the Definition of Age
We often think of age as a number and it’s a valid thinking, too. But when it comes to plastic surgery procedures including liposuction, there are significant differences in chronological and physiological age. Your doctor will look at both definitions before making a decision – and it’s largely in favor of physiological age.
On one hand, chronological age refers to your actual age as measured from the time you were born until the present. You may, for example, be 60 years at the time you sought out liposuction services.
On the other hand, physiological age refers to the age of your body as measured in terms of its appearance, as well as its strength, stamina and flexibility. You may be 60 years old today but physiologically speaking, you are around 40 years old. Your youngish body was likely due to a combination of a lifetime of healthy diet, moderate exercise, and sensible lifestyle habits including the avoidance of cigarettes, alcohol and recreational drugs; your genes may even have a hand in it.
If you have a relatively young physiological age despite your mature chronological age, your doctor will likely consider liposuction as a good choice.
Meet Health Requirements
Even then, your doctor will still consider whether you are a good candidate for the surgery, health-wise. You should meet these requirements:
- You should be in good health without unmanaged or untreated chronic conditions like hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes. (Otherwise, you have a high risk of post-surgery complications)
- You should not be a smoker. (Smoking cigarettes will adversely affect healing of the incisions)
- You should have no history of deep venous thrombosis.
- You should have good skin elasticity. (Older skin doesn’t retract as well as younger skin, thus, there’s the risk of sagging or loose skin)
You should also have realistic expectations about what the liposuction can and cannot do for you. You must also realize that the results of the liposuction can only be maintained by a healthy diet and exercise program.