Record number of women in 50s and 60s having first breast increase

Record numbers of women in their late 50s and early 60s are opting for breast implants for the first time as older generations embrace cosmetic enhancements. The rise in divorces and separations, coupled with more mature individuals re-entering the dating scene, is believed to be a driving force behind the growing demand.

Cosmetic surgeon Mr Jamie Barnes at Pall Mall Medical said: “The decision to undergo breast augmentation is deeply personal and can have profound effects on an individual's confidence and quality of life.

“For many women in their late 50s and early 60s, embracing cosmetic enhancements represents a newfound sense of empowerment and self-assurance as they go through different chapters of their lives and pursue their desires for self-improvement. There has been a significant increase in women in their late fifties and early sixties opting for breast augmentation for the first time in their lives.

“It's reflective of a broader societal shift towards greater self-care and more positive attitudes towards cosmetic procedures aimed at boosting self-esteem and enhancing one's appearance. I had a patient who was in a long-term relationship with a partner unsupportive of the procedure.

"After the relationship ended, she decided to pursue a primary breast augmentation in her late fifties, marking a new chapter in her life."

Advancements in modern medical technology, along with improved materials and techniques resulting in minimal scarring, have contributed to the surge in requests for breast implants. “There's been significant progress in minimising scars,” said Mr Barnes. “For instance, 15 years ago, a breast augmentation might have required a five- or six-centimetre scar, but now it's typically just three centimetres,” he added.

According to the latest stats from the British Association of Plastic Surgeons in 2022, the UK saw a 66% rise in breast augmentation surgeries performed.