I'm a 74 year old in good health who has birthed two children. Am I too old to contemplate liposuction of the abdomen? (Photos)

Question

Are there additional risks I should consider because of my age? Can most of this excess fat be safely removed? Since this is an elective procedure, would any unexpected post-op complications requiring medical attention be covered by my insurance carrier cover? By the way, the rest of my body is not mal-proportioned.

Jason E. Leedy, MD · Answer

More important than age is overall health.  There are no age cutoffs for cosmetic surgery.  If the patient has medical problems it is still possible to have a procedure as long as those issues are appropriately managed.  It is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to learn what is possible and what is safe.

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. There's no age limit or ideal age for Liposuction. However, patients must be over 18 years of age.

Richard Rosenblum, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and the pictures.    More important than your age is your general health.    I think you should see a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss you goals and surgical options.Good luck

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I've treated older patients than you. It is all about expectations.  It looks like you may be a candidate for a tummy tuck and liposuction. I can't speak to insurance coverage, but safety wise, if you do not have many medical issues, liposuction is safe. Best, Dr. Emer.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. If you are in good health and can obtain clearance from your medical physician, then your age is not a contraindication for this surgery.  I have performed this surgery safely in patients of similar age with nice results.  Based on your
photograph, you are a great candidate for a tummy tuck with liposuction. 
This can be done through a low and short incision, all completely below the
bikini line.  Your muscles can also be
plicated resulting in a flat abdomen.  Make sure you
specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have
had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.  The
most important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I
recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic
surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

I'm a 74 year old in good health who has birthed two children. Am I too old to contemplate liposuction of the abdomen? (Photos)

Answers (5)