How do different generations approach plastic surgery?

Maybe you remember when you had to walk uphill to school, both ways, in the snow. Or perhaps you were fond of 80s pop music and grew to love butterfly clips and dark, moody lipstick. Maybe for as long as you can remember, you've had an electronic device in your hand and know the ins and outs of the hottest apps on the Internet. Or maybe you find yourself constantly asking, "What is this music?!"

Each generation has its unique quirks. In some regard, we are all products of the time in which we grew up, and those differences can significantly impact our perception of the world today and how we approach everything from relationships to work and, yes, even plastic surgery. Aesthetic goals for each generation may differ, especially if you grew up with more options and a more "in-your-face" stream of beauty tips and information.

How do different generations approach plastic surgery today, and what can we learn from each other?

Generational differences in plastic surgery

There is no doubt that times have changed. For older generations, plastic surgery was a bit of a taboo subject – something that you could do but needed to keep quiet about or deny. Sometimes that attitude still exists today, but young people, especially, are more open about talking about plastic surgery and what procedures and treatments they have done. Social media, for good and ill, has helped spread information and given a new generation more access to what's new, innovative and available in the world of plastic and cosmetic surgery.

Has a steady diet of digital information changed the way younger generations approach plastic surgery as opposed to older individuals? Are the procedures that remain popular with an older generation still popular with younger people?

"The main difference I notice between generations is that the younger ones are more likely to openly share what they do," said Kristy Hamilton, MD. "Whether it is as small as a Botox treatment or a full mommy makeover."

However, openness about their aesthetic treatments isn't the only difference. Which procedures people choose to get also vary between the generations, with young patients more likely to opt for minimally invasive options and older generations embracing more comprehensive surgical treatments.

"Younger patients actually love smaller tweaks more frequently than older patients," said Roy Kim, MD. "Think fillers for facial sculpting, medical-grade skincare to improve skin tone and 'Baby Botox' to stave off wrinkles as long as possible."

For younger people, it is all about minor improvements and staving off the effects of Mother Nature and Father Time for as long as possible.

“Overall, my impression is that younger women are more accustomed to plastic surgery," said Dr. Hamilton. "Additionally, recovery has become much smoother and rapid with 'undetectable' results, making earlier intervention more appealing. They do not want to see a dramatic change – rather subtle maintenance and enhancement, so the changes are always smaller and undetectable. The younger generation is also very active in 'prejuvenation' – preventing signs of aging before it begins with excellent skincare, sunscreen, Botox and lasers."

These younger patients are open to all the aesthetic treatments that are being offered by plastic surgeons and embracing these surgeries at an earlier age.

"In terms of surgery, they are more willing to get facial surgical procedures or breast procedures at a younger age," said Dr. Kim. "Younger patients are definitely more aware of facial sculpting, rhinoplasty, a cut jawline and breast surgery."

Not only are there different trends among generations, but trends are also evolving within each of those generational groupings. As time goes on, what people in different age groups ask for changes.

"I have noticed that more women in their 60s are looking at breast and body procedures – augmentations and lifts and tummy tucks," said Anureet Bajaj, MD. "Typically, these types of procedures were more common in younger women."

Generally, younger patients may be able to manage with less invasive treatments, while older patients may need surgical intervention to achieve the desired results.

"Older patients get less invasive and noninvasive procedures, and they often have to decide whether to continue these types of procedures or go forward with a facelift and neck lift," said Dr. Kim. "With Ozempic and society, in general, even if they do not get a facelift, they are aware they probably need one to get the best aesthetic results. Older patients definitely think a lot about a neck lift, facelift and rejuvenating breast and body procedures after weight gain and weight loss, childbirth or simply age."

Aging changes aesthetic concerns

Generational differences aren't just about a specific mindset. Older individuals will have different concerns and aesthetic goals as they age. This isn't a new concept. As the body ages, collagen production declines, skin sags and individuals may lose fat and muscle tone. Procedures that address these issues will be more interesting to older patients than to younger patients who have not experienced them yet.

"Older patients definitely focus on aging, rejuvenation and more 'natural' results," said Dr. Kim.

Everyone goes through changes in their appearance as they age, often in a relatively similar timeline, so it's unsurprising that in each decade that procedures tend to follow that flow of time.

"In the 30s and 40s, breast implant revisions are common – exchanges or exchanges with a lift – as are lifts alone," said Dr. Hamilton. "So, those 'trends' simply follow women in their natural progression through childbearing years – if they partake – and the aging process.”

However, mindset and generational differences still play a role in how younger and older people think about plastic surgery and what procedures are right for them.

"Younger patients seem to be more open to trying something to improve their overall holistic facial appearance," said Dr. Kim.

A neck lift may seem more in line with a procedure an older patient would seek, but that's not necessarily the case, with younger patients sometimes opting for these procedures.

"They definitely seem to want to improve their facial profile, whether it's facial filler or rhinoplasty with a chin implant or neck liposuction or a deep neck lift," said Dr. Kim. "Even Botox to improve brow position, slim the face by masseter injection and do a tiny 'lip lift' are all fair game."

Ultimately, there doesn't need to be a giant rift between generations or criticism about how one age group approaches surgery versus another. Younger patients can appreciate the wisdom and experience that older individuals bring to the plastic surgery journey. In comparison, older patients can look to the younger generation for innovative solutions and a fresh approach to embracing plastic surgery discussions without shame or stigma.

However, it's still okay to criticize generational musical choices when someone turns on the radio or pops on their Spotify playlist.

To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.