Being a teenager sometimes means wanting to fit in. Younger people usually want plastic surgery to improve their facial and body flaws, like an example, a misshaped nose, asymmetrical breasts or acne. Although the cosmetic procedures can help teenagers gain self-esteem and confidence, and make them feel prettier, there are some rules about those young enthusiasts.
First, your teenager should have a realistic expectation about cosmetic procedures. Consultations with the plastic surgeon are of utmost importance, as teenagers can learn about the procedure and expectations. They can find out if risks are involved and if they should expect some temporary unpleasantness during the recovery.
Growth and physical maturity is also a big factor for teenagers who want aesthetic surgery. The young bodies evolve during those turbulent years so doing an early procedure can cause a problems later when they grow fully into adults. Consultations with an experienced doctor are needed to evaluate the patient’s physical maturity.
Understanding the actual procedures is also important for teenagers and their parents. Nose reshaping procedures are not performed until teenagers reach 16 or 17 years of age. Rhinoplasty is one of the most common plastic procedures among teenagers, with nearly 35,000 procedures on teens in 2009, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Another popular procedure, otoplasty or ear surgery, can be performed on patients after the age of five.
Young people with mood swings, who are abusing drugs or alcohol, or with clinical depression should not receive plastic surgery.