As I write this, it is a few days before my birthday.  I got to thinking about how my patients are often motivated by age to do something to fight the aging process.  Each milestone birthday seems to bring in a characteristic patient type that reflects the aging process.

When girls turn 18, they no longer need parental consent, and often are looking to improve body image.  At Yager Esthetics, I see consults for the nose, breasts (both implants and reductions), and liposuction most frequently.  It is my challenge to make sure that they understand the risk and process, and that they are mature and secure enough to handle it.

At age 30, the first fears of aging set in.  Many women have had children, and it is time to get the body back. Mommy Makeovers, breast lifts and implants, tummy tucks and lipo are all very popular in this age group, as is the Brazilian Buttlift.  They are still young, and want to enjoy physical beauty for a little longer.

At age 40, facial changes start.  There are still the body after baby procedures, but we start to talk about the eyelids, the neck, and occasionally the face.  Fillers and Botox are very often demanded as well. Skin care starts.

At the dreaded 50, full on facelifts, brow lifts and eyelid procedures dominate the conversation.  Fillers and wrinkle remedies are a maintenance must.  Body procedures are still in demand, especially with the now single ladies.

After 60, it is essentially all facial aging changes that we deal with both surgically and nonsurgically, depending on the health and desires of the patient.

My advice is to fix what bothers you when it bothers you, not just because it is a certain birthday.  Take control of your life and seek out honest, professional advice, and make the decision that works for you, when it works for you.