Have you ever wondered if you’re “too old” for plastic surgery? While there are those who believe there’s some cut-off age for cosmetic enhancements, it appears that few people over the age of 50 buy into that notion. According to statistics, nearly 100,000 seniors have some kind of cosmetic procedure every year, and over 25% of all cosmetic enhancements are performed on men and women who are 50 and older. I’m not saying that an individual who is 50 years old is a senior–far from it–but what I am saying is that, as we age, some of us do develop age-related disorders and illness that might not prevent a cosmetic procedure but can add a layer of risk to having one.

But is there a specific age after which a man or woman shouldn’t have plastic surgery? I say “no.” It’s not about looking younger for someone else. It’s about feeling good for yourself, whatever your age. We all know that having a face lift at my Houston plastic surgery practice isn’t going to make you look 20 again. Those days are gone. But isn’t it a nice thought that you could look good for your age, regardless of what age you are? I think so. If having children, aging or just genetics has left you with drooping breasts or a saggy tummy complete with stretch marks, and you hate looking in the mirror at that, a Mommy Makeover, which is a combination of breast enhancement and tummy tuck, can make you happy when you see your reflection and excited to buy clothing again. If you can afford it and you want it, why should you deny yourself, so long as you are healthy enough to have the procedure?

Picture this analogy: if the house paint was chipping, would you repaint your house? If the gutters were loose, would you tighten or replace them? Of course, your answer is “yes” to both. Truth is, you’re going to be looking in the mirror at your face more often than at the paint on the outside of your home or the gutters near the roof. If it gives you pleasure to see fewer wrinkles and less jowls, then why not? But again, do it for yourself. Don’t do it because someone else wants you to (spouse, friend, kids, etc) or because the media has convinced you that it’s “wrong” to appear older. Aging brings wisdom, experience, and a certain level of maturity that none of us had at 20, so aging isn’t all bad. Aging in a way that suits you is the goal.

So, pay no mind to those who say you’re “too old” to make changes, whatever those changes are: learning a new language, taking a trip overseas, learning to skydive, having a tummy tuck or a facelift. Whatever it is, it’s your life and your body. Be happy with it.