Primary Article

Cutaneous Aging: Effect of Intrinsic Changes on Surgical Considerations

Authors: CLIFFORD W. LOBER, MD, NEIL A. FENSKE, MD

Abstract

Intrinsic age-related structural and functional changes in the skin, independent of sun-induced damage, directly affect wound healing in the elderly. These alterations, as well as concomitant medical illness, pharmaceutical intake, and dietary changes, result in delayed wound healing, decreased ultimate tensile strength, and increased rates of wound dehiscence, ecchymosis, tape-strip injuries, infection, and persistent contact dermatitis.

This content is limited to qualifying members.

Existing members, please login first

If you have an existing account please login now to access this article or view purchase options.

Purchase only this article ($25)

Create a free account, then purchase this article to download or access it online for 24 hours.

Purchase an SMJ online subscription ($75)

Create a free account, then purchase a subscription to get complete access to all articles for a full year.

Purchase a membership plan (fees vary)

Premium members can access all articles plus recieve many more benefits. View all membership plans and benefit packages.

References