By Dr. Philip Solomon & Nancie Heiber
When Dr. Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC, Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon, practicing Facial Plastic Surgery in Toronto, told us his facelift clients have been skewing younger recently, we wanted to learn more. Here’s what he told us about this procedure that was once seen as something for only an older demographic.
When we think about facelifts, we generally think they’re for older people who are bothered by the way aging has affected their appearance. We understand these procedures are getting popular with adults 35 to 50. Why are younger folks opting for facelifts?
Dr. Philip Solomon: In the last few years, we have definitely seen a shift in the demographic seeking facelift surgery. I would say a large majority of our facelift patients are between 53 to 57 years old, which seems to be the sweet-spot demographic. Of course, we still see patients in their 60s and 70s, however, what has changed since the pandemic is an influx of patients in their late 30s and 40s, many of whom are experiencing filler fatigue. It’s quite common for people who are seeing early signs of aging in their 30s to start using filler as an anti-aging tool, which is a good product and a good option. That said, over time it can change a person’s appearance. People tend to max out on non-surgical interventions before considering surgery.
I also think people are now far more sensitive to aging. Smartphone cameras and social media are at everyone’s fingertips. Video conferencing became much more common during COVID-19 and has continued since. All of these factors have contributed to a more “age-conscious” society. I also think there is just a greater interest in maintaining a youthful appearance for as long as possible.
How do you feel about this trend?
Dr. Philip Solomon: I think it’s a positive shift. I believe if patients have anatomical concerns that can be addressed with surgery, it’s a good option. The advantage to doing surgery at a younger age is to pre-empt the evolution of more obvious signs of aging. We do offer non-surgical options, however some concerns such as excessive skin laxity, exposed platysma bands and heavy jowls will respond better to surgery. Non-surgical treatments can certainly help, but surgery provides a more definitive, predictable result that lasts longer.
Who is a good candidate for a facelift? For those who are younger, the reasons why they might want the procedure might not seem as obvious.
Dr. Philip Solomon: All genders and people 35 years old and older may be candidates for facelift surgery depending on their anatomy, however, I have seen the odd patient in their late 20s who could benefit from a facelift. Some circumstances often include extreme weight loss causing induced skin laxity, an inherited thick neck with extreme submental fullness and dense jowls that have fallen prematurely. We also see a demographic of patients, more often females, who just want to look youthful and chiselled for as long as possible.
How we see ourselves is subjective and cosmetic surgery is an accessible option and more widely accepted. Social media has provided a platform for patients to share and learn more about what’s available in facial aesthetics, which could give a boost in confidence to others pursuing similar treatments.
On average, when do the first real noticeable signs of aging really start to show?
Dr. Philip Solomon: We start losing collagen with each decade that passes, starting in our mid 20s. Skin type plays a role, as people with thinner skin may develop more obvious signs of aging at a younger age. Other contributors to an aged appearance are sun damage, smoking, environmental pollutants and genetics. It’s never too late to address your concerns, however, it’s also a good idea to start early with aesthetic interventions such as injectables, energy devices, medical-grade skincare and, of course, sunscreen — all can help delay the onset of aging.
There are obviously fillers and other non-invasive procedures that can be done for those interested. What is the benefit of surgery at an earlier age?
Dr. Philip Solomon: There are many advantages to pursuing a facelift at a younger age. The number-one reason would be to avoid signs of aging as they begin to surface. This allows you to transition into mid-life maintaining a youthful appearance. This strategy is now becoming the preference to avoid the “yo-yo effect.” The yo-yo effect is when people let themselves age and then decide to have surgery to reverse the aging effect. This strategy can cause a more noticeable change to a person’s appearance.
Another advantage to having surgery in the prime of your life is that you get to enjoy looking youthful for many years. People often express how they feel youthful inside, but their appearance no longer reflects that. Waiting until later in life is only delaying the confidence boost and pleasure that comes from rejuvenating your appearance at a younger age.
Lastly, advanced aging, such as deep wrinkles, heavy jowls and thinned skin, can add a layer of complexity to facelift surgery and pose limitations to the outcome.
Oct 04th 2023