Is it normal for someone over 80yo to have arm lift?

Thank you for your question. The risk of surgery and anesthesia typically has less to do with chronological age and more with how your health is. While it is a part of weighing the risks vs. benefits, there are many variables. This operation carries scars. Each plastic surgeon may approach this differently. Also each patient is different. Best to see a board certified plastic surgeon. They will evaluate you and together you will make a plan for your goals.

Jeffrey J. Roth, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Las Vegas Plastic Surgery

Thank you for your questions regarding the normalcy of undergoing an arm lift at over 80 years old and the safety of general anesthesia for your age group.
Plastic surgery among elderly patients is increasingly common, making it more "normal" for individuals in their 80s and beyond to opt for elective procedures like arm lifts. As for the safety of general anesthesia in your case, it is often necessary for an arm lift, mainly because using a large volume of local anesthetic could be toxic. Therefore, general anesthesia is generally the preferred option.
To ensure the safe administration of general anesthesia for patients over 80, preoperative medical tests are crucial. These typically include blood work, an electrocardiogram (EKG), chest X-ray, and urinalysis. Many plastic surgeons also recommend a carotid duplex to examine the neck vessels and a stress test. If these tests yield normal results, it suggests a lower risk compared to someone with abnormal findings.
In summary, if you are over 80 and in good health, undergoing an arm lift under general anesthesia is not uncommon and can be safely considered. Good luck, and I hope I have adequately addressed your concerns about arm lift surgery at your age and the safety of general anesthesia for patients over 80 years old.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen