how does age affect the healing process
The following are factors that should be considered by the surgical team prior to and during the procedure.  THE PATIENT'S AGE--With aging, both skin and muscle tissue lose their tone and elasticity. Metabolism also slows, and circulation may be impaired. All of these factors lengthen healing time.  THE PATIENT'S WEIGHT--In obese patients of any age, excess fat at the wound site may prevent securing a good closure. In addition, fat does not have a rich blood supply, making it the most vulnerable of all tissues to trauma and infection.  THE PATIENT'S NUTRITIONAL STATUS--Deficiencies in carbohydrates, proteins, zinc, and vitamins A, B, and C can impair the healing process.