Cosmetic treatments are no longer just about reversing the clock. A new wave of younger patients is headed to the plastic surgeon for anti-aging treatments designed to slow aging before it even starts. According to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, facelift patients aged 35 to 55 have increased from 26 percent to as high as 32 percent in recent years. Additionally, 67 percent of facial plastic surgeons believe this trend will continue as more people take early steps to preserve their youthful appearance.
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Cosmetic Surgery as Self-Care
“There is a greater focus on self-care and confidence,” says Palo Alto, CA facial plastic surgeon Steven Curti, MD. “Younger generations are prioritizing their mental health and investing in themselves, much like going to the gym or eating healthy. Aesthetic treatments have become a natural part of that routine.”
New York facial plastic surgeon Dilip Madnani, MD, adds that social media has played a major role. “People are more educated due to influencers and cosmetic educators online,” he explains. “Patients are seeing what’s possible and want to be proactive about skin care, sun exposure and their overall appearance. There’s been a shift toward a healthier mindset that encompasses everything from diet and exercise to injectables and mini procedures.”
Aging in Stages
The motivation for younger patients seeking anti-aging treatments extends beyond vanity. “Aging is a process, and younger patients now recognize that prevention is easier than correction,” says Dr. Madnani. “Rather than waiting for deep wrinkles or sagging, they’re opting for subtle tweaks. A small amount of filler in strategic areas can help maintain facial balance and delay the need for more invasive procedures down the line.”
Dr. Curti agrees, noting that the normalization of aesthetic enhancements has made a huge impact. “There’s been a cultural shift where celebrities and influencers are open about their treatments,” he says. “This transparency has made aesthetic procedures more acceptable and approachable.”
The Treatments Everyone’s Getting
Instead of waiting for aging to set in, younger patients turn to nonsurgical options that deliver long-term benefits. “Botox, lasers and microneedling are no longer just corrective; they’re now viewed as proactive tools to maintain youthful skin,” says Dr. Curti. “Microneedling, chemical peels, lasers and neurotoxins are excellent preventative treatments that stimulate collagen, improve skin texture and delay early signs of aging.”
Dr. Madnani notes that laser resurfacing and light-based treatments such as IPL and BBL are surging in popularity. “We’re seeing increased demand for treatments that address early sun damage and pigmentation,” he says. “Medical-grade skin care is another key element of prevention.”
A growing interest in newer solutions, like growth factor and exosome treatments, also factor in says Dr. Curti. “These more natural approaches are gaining attention for their regenerative benefits,” he says. “Our practice also offers hyperbaric oxygen therapy and red light therapy, which have proven anti-aging effects.”
How to Keep It Natural
While starting early has benefits, experts warn against overdoing it. “We focus on enhancing natural features rather than altering them,” says Dr. Curti. “The goal is always to keep results fresh and natural.”
“Look for a specialist in what you want done,” advises Dr. Madnani. “A provider who doesn’t look overdone themselves, whose staff doesn’t look overdone—that’s a good sign. Do your research, check reviews and verify their credentials.”
He also cautions that while aesthetic treatments can deliver great results, there are potential risks. “Make sure your provider has been performing these treatments for many years, not just claiming they have,” Dr. Madnani says. “A provider should regularly undergo training and supervision. Additionally, always ask about potential side effects and how to manage them.”
