What Teens and Their Parents Should Know When Considering Plastic Surgery

by Jane Meggitt

Plastic surgery is growing exponentially in the teen market, thanks to greater acceptance of such procedures and its prominence on Instagram and other social media. Of course, until a teenager reaches their 18th birthday, they’ll need parental consent for any plastic surgery, and even after 18 most will require someone to pay the often hefty bills. Here’s some food for thought for teens and parents when it comes to making plastic surgery choices.

Ridicule and Plastic Surgery Options

Kids are often mean, and social media makes them meaner. Children bullied at school because of unattractive features – such as prominent ears or overly large noses – may benefit from early plastic surgery. Parents may tell children that it is what is inside a person that counts, and that is eternal truth. However, a young person whose life is made miserable by name-calling may feel much better about themselves if they undergo otoplasty, or ear size reduction, or rhinoplasty, reduction or reshaping of the nose. These surgeries can result not only in an end to ridicule – although there is never a guarantee – but to a greater feeling of self-esteem for the teenager.

Acne Scars

Acne remains a teenage bane, and minimally invasive procedures for getting rid of scars and indentations are the most sought-after for this age group. Laser resurfacing and dermabrasion can improve the complexion, but it is also important to work with a dermatologist because acne doesn’t just disappear after high school. Many people suffer from serious breakouts well into their 20s and beyond.

Dermal Fillers

Blame it on the Kardashians. They and other social media superstars have made dermal injections, including lip fillers, a must-have for many teenagers. This is a demand most parents should resist. Most plastic surgeons won’t recommend Botox and similar injections for young people, although lip injections appear less of an issue.

Breast Surgeries

Breast augmentation is not done on anyone under age 18 unless the breasts are actually deformed. Breast reduction, however, is another story. There are often legitimate health reasons for young women to undergo breast reduction, such as back problems, but the procedure does leave scarring. Young men with enlarged breasts, a condition known as gynecomastia, may opt for surgery. Prior to making this decision, a teenage boy with weight issues should attempt a diet and exercise regimen to help him slim down and possibly lose the excess breast tissue naturally.

Today’s parents thinking of giving their child plastic surgery as a present should think long and hard about the decision. They should speak in depth with their teenager and the plastic surgeon. If the teen has never indicated any interest in changing their appearance, a suggestion by the parents that’s it is a good idea is potentially devastating.

If you or someone you know would like more information about plastic surgery, please feel free to schedule a consultation at Plastic Surgery Portal or contact one of our representatives today!