Sarcopenia, defined as the progressive loss of muscle mass, strength, and physical performance, is increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of surgical outcomes in older adults. Although commonly associated with aging, sarcopenia also arises in the context of various health conditions and often coexists with other vulnerabilities in surgical patients. Its presence contributes to increased risk of postoperative complications, delayed recovery, prolonged hospital stays, and reduced functional independence. In the perioperative setting, sarcopenia may be pre-existing or may worsen due to surgical stress, immobility, and systemic changes. Despite its clinical relevance, it is frequently underdiagnosed prior to surgery, partly due to time constraints and the lack of standardized screening in acute care. However, imaging already performed for surgical planning can offer useful indicators of muscle status. Importantly, sarcopenia is a modifiable condition. Basic management strategies include resistance-based exercise, nutritional optimization, and early mobilization. In the perioperative period, approaches such as timely rehabilitation, adequate analgesia, and minimizing immobilization can help mitigate further muscle loss and support recovery. Recognizing sarcopenia allows for more accurate risk stratification and more tailored perioperative care. As surgical demand continues to rise in aging populations, integrating sarcopenia into routine surgical assessment is essential. Addressing it proactively not only reduces the risk of adverse outcomes but also plays a crucial role in preserving postoperative function and independence.