Plastic surgery can help alleviate age prejudice

Discrimination can occur based on one’s age, too

Eric A. Cole

Cole Aesthetic Center

Editor’s note: The following story is a supplement to the Health Care special section included in this week’s issue.

A common societal misconception regarding facial rejuvenation is that the majority are driven by vanity or the idea of re-living or restoring “lost youthfulness.”

Some people even stereotype those who undergo plastic surgery as mentally unstable or unable to deal with the natural aging of the face and body.

Having been in practice for nearly 10 years in Kitsap County, my experience has been quite contrary.

Ageism, although less acknowledged than sexism or racism, is one of the most pervasive prejudices in our society. As are most prejudices, ageism is extremely harmful to its recipients. It can result in mistreatment of individuals, ranging from stereotypical and degrading media images, physical or financial abuse, denial of appropriate health care services or 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 are older individuals who are vibrant and active both physically and mentally into their eighth and ninth decades of their lives. As such, and in order to maintain psychological and physical well-being, these individuals wish to remain active contributors in our society.

Age discrimination often is associated with feelings of depression, uselessness, powerlessness and low self-esteem in people who have held important positions and have vast amounts of experience and insight.

As a result of a tumultuous economy, uncertain investment markets or failing pension programs, it’s not always an option to retire at an age when society has somewhat arbitrarily labeled as appropriate.

The Cole Aesthetic Center specializes in minimally invasive facial rejuvenation. Nearly every day, patients come in who are desperately trying to remain active, working members of our society.

Patients commonly report they feel age discrimination prevents them from re-entering or remaining in the work force. They have no interest in looking 20 years younger, or even re-living portions of their youth.

Instead, these patients wish to look as good as they feel so they can be judged by their experience, intelligence and accomplishments, rather than 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.