Teens and Cosmetic Surgery

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One teen in New Jersey told her Mom she wanted to look like Britney Spears, to which her Mom answered, “Me too.” This sentiment is not uncommon, especially not among teens. With the hype of TV shows like “Extreme Makeover” and so many perfect-looking teens idols, some adolescents wanting to enhance their looks turn to plastic surgery.

In an age where appearance is everything, coupled with the ever-increasing need to fit in, teens seek out ways to add to the beauty they already have. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), teens struggle with image and they see surgery as a way to fit in. They want to look acceptable to their peers.

Consequently, the number of teens choosing cosmetic surgery is on the rise. The ASPS found that over 333,000 people 18 years and younger had plastic surgery in 2005—up from the 306,000 in 2000.

A report encompassing eight years of data shows that the most common procedures teenagers choose are chemical peels, microdermabrasion (acne treatment), laser hair removal, nose jobs, ear surgery, breast reduction, breast enlargements, chin augmentation, and liposuction to remove fat.

When Is Plastic Surgery Appropriate?

For some teens, it’s more important to fit in—particularly with regard to appearance— than it is to accept the way they look. But at what age is it ok for a surgeon to alter and/or improve a teen’s appearance?

In a USA Today article, Dr. David Sarwer, psychologist at the Center for Human Appearance at the University of Pennsylvania Medical School, comments, “The big problem with teens is they are being operated on at the tumultuous time in their bodies. They may not recognize the permanence of what they are doing.”

Dennis Hurwitz, a plastic surgeon and clinical professor at the University of Pittsburgh, agrees with Sarwer.

“Plastic Surgeons are like operating psychiatrist,” he says. He feels that two-thirds of the teens who come to him seeking plastic surgery don’t need to be changed at all.

“Teens risk making a decision they’ll regret.” As a surgeon, he continues, “you must recognize their impulsive behavior.”

The patient’s emotional and physical safety come first and this is largely what a surgeon must consider. Providing parents with the facts about risks and making sure they are aware of the emotional issues is also important.

Choosing a Plastic Surgeon

When a teen is ready to emotionally and physically handle cosmetic surgery, they should only consider a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons “A board-certified plastic surgeon is a doctor trained to be a concerned care-giver, a wound care expert, a problem solver, an artist-designer and meticulous surgeon in the operating room.”

Click here to locate a board certified plastic surgeon near you today.


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