Surgeon's age - what is your opinion on an older plastic surgeon?

Question

What is your opinion on an older plastic surgeon? I'm consulting with a well-known, experienced plastic surgeon in a major metropolitan area with a vibrant personality and an excellent reputation. But, he is over 80. I feel ageist asking but I also feel like it isn't unreasonable to wonder if I should trust my facelift to a surgeon over 80. I mean... shouldn't he be running for president instead? :) JK- I'm looking for an honest, serious response.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

Physiological age and chronologic age can be different in Surgeons; I have seen some Surgeons in their 50's in terrible shape and much older Surgeons at their prime.  We have all seen Surgeons perform very well into their late 70's, and it is possible that your Surgeon is in great shape.  This isn't an easily answered question by outsiders and best to discuss with the Surgeon you are seeing.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

I completely appreciate your concerns. When choosing a plastic surgeon for something as important as a Facelift, experience should be a key factor and obviously someone his age has this experience. I would try to check on his recent reputation, because 80 is a bit old to still be operating, but Certainly not out of the question. Try to find out if he has a younger associate assisting him in the operating room, which is not a bad thing. You also can seek out a second opinion from another board-certified plastic surgeon in our area. I practice in the New York City area, and I know of several plastic surgeons around that age that are still operating and are still excellent. If it is one of those surgeons, you are in good hands.

Brian K. Machida, MD, FACS · Answer

Your answer really depends on the doctor.  I've known doctors with active minds and high energy levels at that age.  Given his experience, It is possible for him to produce results equivalent to or better than peers half his age.  But it also depends on his hands and manual dexterity, which you have really no way to gauge.  In other words, you're the best judge because you have first-hand experience with him.  Age is a consideration but only one part of your consideration.  Best of luck in your decision.

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are well. I've personally known and observed plenty of surgeons that perform very well into their 70s (much rarer to encounter surgeons still practicing into their 80s, but I don't doubt there are exceptional individuals out there). I've also observed surgeons operating beyond when they should have retired. Your question is legitimate because we can't pretend like age doesn't matter--at some point it simply becomes a safety and quality issue for every surgeon. (This is why commercial airline pilots have forced retirement at age 65). In medicine, there is no age cut-off or requirements for testing cognitive or physical capabilities imposed by state agencies to maintain a license. Therefore, it is left up to the surgeon's personal accountability to retire or curtail surgical practice when necessary due to age (decline in physical stamina, coordination, cognition, dexterity, etc). That hasn't happened, so this surgeon clearly trusts himself--but do you trust him? From a practical point of view, you must feel comfortable with your surgeon, and once a significant age bias is established it may never go away regardless of whatever evidence of skill and competency you are presented with. That is not a good foundation for a serious doctor-patient relationship. You could ask to speak with a recent facelift patient as a reference, and look at recent before-and-after photos, or put your doubts to rest by finding a younger surgeon.
Best,Dr. Tower

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I have known many plastic surgeons working quite late in their years. Every surgeon I knew may have been older but they were still at the top of their game. I can’t speak to your particular situation but being a surgeon at 80 is not a deal breaker

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

There are many excellent surgeons who still practice and are in their 70's to 80's. They have a wealth of experience and knowledge that younger surgeons do not yet have. Ask to see his photos, especially more recent ones. If you like what you see and hear, go with him.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

More important than looking at the age of the surgeon, is to look at their most recent before and after facelift results. Study your perspective surgeon's before and after facelift photo gallery, and make sure that it is up-to-date and current with great results that you like that look very natural

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Your point, and concern are legitimate and an excellent topic.
I chose to have a facelift and had a very particular surgeon in mind for my procedure. That surgeon was well known internationally, especially for male aesthetics.
When I found out, he was getting ready to retire. I moved forward and scheduled surgery because I wanted that surgeon to do my procedure. The surgeon who did my facelift has since passed. His name is Bruce Connell. Each year Dr. Connell trained one plastic surgeon in facelift surgery.
All the surgeons trained by Bruce Connell our porch of a society called the Bruce Connell society. They historically meet once a year to review the latest and best techniques for facial aesthetic surgery. They include some of the most prominent facelift surgeons to date.
Dr. Connell typically always had surgeons assist him during surgery and he told me he would bring one of his previous fellows to do most of the work and he would oversee and do only some of the surgery.
I was 48 when I had my face lift and brow lift.
The experience, and my results were far beyond my expectations. 
There’s a balancing act between experience and loss of cognitive function.
I’m currently in my early 60s and feel like I’m just starting to hit the peak of the best work in my career. My decision-making has become far more conservative, and I am less likely to operate, unless indications are clear and straightforward.
I no longer do procedures I’m not comfortable with or procedures I’m not good at.
The procedures I do perform, I do very well.
My work has become far more consistent and predictable, but it was earlier in my career.
One thing to consider is the importance of follow up.
Based on the information you provided your surgeon may not be around for long-term follow up and this is a desirable thing to have from the patient’s perspective.
I was grateful that Dr. Connell was upfront about his age and that he made the decision to have an assistant I’m in to help with the procedure that lasted eight hours.
i’ve never had I regret having had that procedure and I doubt I will have more cosmetic surgery in my lifetime.
finding a surgeon who has truly mastered their art is something special.
Best,
Mats hagstrom MD

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