A growing number of senior citizens who are trying to look their best are undergoing cosmetic surgery to retain a youthful appearance, according to The St. Petersburg Times in Florida.

Face and eye lifts are among the most popular surgical procedures for those who are 65 and over, but Botox injections, which are less invasive, are at the top
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery estimates that 7 percent of overall cosmetic surgery last year was performed on seniors.

Barbara Paonessa, 75, informed the news provider that she had decided to have her chin reshaped, because she didn't like the way that it had begun to droop. She also elected to undergo eye lift surgery.

"People are living longer. In many cases, they're living healthier, and they don't perceive themselves as being old or older," Paonessa's doctor told the newspaper.

However, medications and health conditions can have a serious effect on cosmetic surgery. Doctors recommend that patients understand the risks and complications that accompany each procedure.

Before a patient commits to changing an aspect of his or her body, they should be fully aware of the details of the operation, including recovery time and psychological effects, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

Bruising and swelling are common after-effects of facelifts, but are generally resolved within 48 hours and two weeks, respectively.

To find a board-certified ASAPS plastic surgeon in your area, please go to: www.surgery.org/consumers/find-a-plastic-surgeon