A common societal misconception regarding why individuals pursue facial rejuvenation is that the majority of them are driven by vanity or the idea of reliving or restoring “lost youthfulness.” Some people even stereotype persons who undergo plastic surgery as “mentally unstable” or “unable to deal with the natural sequelae of the aging face and body.” Having been in practice for nearly 10 years in Kitsap County, my experience has been quite contrary to these commonly regarded views.

Ageism, although less acknowledged than sexism and racism, is one of the most pervasive prejudices in our society. As are most prejudices, ageism is extremely harmful to its recipients. Ageism can result in mistreatment of individuals ranging from stereotypic and degrading media images, physical and financial abuse, denial of appropriate healthcare services and discrimination in the workforce.

Retirement is a relatively new concept in our society. Improved understanding of the importance of diet, exercise and preventative medicine has resulted in significant increases in longevity and quality of life. These older individuals are vibrant and active both physically and mentally into the 8th and 9th decades of life. As such, and in order to maintain psychological and physical well-being, these individuals wish to remain active contributors’ in our society. Age discrimination is often associated with feelings of depression, uselessness, powerlessness and low self esteem in people who have led powerful and important positions in life and have vast amounts of experience and insight to contribute in the workforce. As a result of a tumultuous economy, uncertain investment markets and failing pension programs, it is not always an option to “retire” at an age society has somewhat arbitrarily labeled as “appropriate.”

In our practice at the Cole Aesthetic Center, we specialize in minimally invasive facial rejuvenation. Nearly every day we see patients who are desperately trying to remain active, working members of our society. Patients commonly report that they feel that Age Discrimination is preventing them from reentering or remaining in the work force. These patients have no interest in “looking 20 years younger” or even reliving portions of there youth. Instead these patients wish to look as good as they feel so they can be judged by their experience, intelligence and accomplishments rather that by their age. Using state of the art laser equipment and surgical techniques with minimal downtime, today’s cosmetic surgeon can safely achieve the goal of improved confidence and quality of life through facial rejuvenation.