It is not difficult to find information on the Internet that states that elderly patients are much more likely to experience complications after a surgical procedure. With this information readily available, it is easy to decide to forego that cosmetic procedure you’ve been dreaming about because you’re afraid.
However, according to a recent study presented in October’s annual scientific meeting of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), this belief just isn’t true. This quick guide will help you to understand why plastic surgery in Las Vegas isn’t more dangerous for the elderly.
The Facts
The following facts were taken from the study presented in October at the ASPS annual scientific meeting. In this study, information was collected and analyzed about cosmetic procedures done between 2008 and 2013 from the CosmetAssure database. This is what the study revealed:
Elderly patients (average age 69) experienced complications at a rate of 1.94 percent. Younger patients (average age 39) came in at 1.84 percent.- Patients over the age of 80 experienced complications at a rate of 2.2 percent.
- These comparatively low rates of complication occurred even with elderly patients who have health related indicators hinting toward a higher rate of complications. These indicators were commonly the presence of diabetes and a higher body mass index (BMI).
- The only procedure after which elderly patients experienced more complications than younger patients is the abdominoplasty. Elderly patients had a 5.4 percent rate of complication while younger patients had a rate of 3.9 percent.
- The most common complications experienced by elderly patients after a cosmetic procedure were hematoma, infection and difficulty healing.
What does this mean for you?
The results of this study are clear. Elderly patients, generally speaking, do not have to be concerned about a higher risk of complication if they are considering plastic surgery in Las Vegas. People over the age of 65 can safely pursue cosmetic procedures while facing a risk of complication only slightly higher than younger people who pursue those same procedures.
However, it is important to remember that the rate at which you are at risk of complication depends solely on you. While these statistics are pleasing, you want to make sure that you are truly a good candidate for whichever plastic surgery procedure you are considering.
This rate of risk also depends on whether or not you are working with a plastic surgeon that is board certified by the ASPS. Before you consider going under the knife, be absolutely certain that your surgeon is certified. This is a huge contributor to the overall success of any procedure you decide to undergo.
The best way to do this is by scheduling a consultation with one of the professionals at Reynolds Plastic Surgery. These board certified Las Vegas plastic surgeons have the skill and extensive knowledge to guide you toward your best course of action while respectfully considering your needs. For more information about plastic surgery in Las Vegas, contact 702.410.9800.