According to reports, more than 300,000 cosmetic surgeries were performed on children under the age of 18 in 2004.

While some parents are accompanying their teens to the plastic surgeons for a little liposuction of their own, others are concerned about this new trend and are unsure of how to approach the issue of cosmetic surgery.

Listening to Your Child

Gregory Evans, Chief of the Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery Institute at UCI says that for a surgery to be effective and successful it’s important for all parties involved to have a clear understanding of the procedure and the desired results.“

The bottom line is that surgery- whether it is cosmetic or other-carries risks,” explains Evans. “Informed decisions between the patient, family and physician as well as the risks and benefits need to be reviewed and mutual decisions made. Everyone involved must believe that surgery will be beneficial and that the expectations are realistic.”

Getting the Most from Surgery

According to the American Society for Plastic Surgeons, the most rewarding outcomes of surgery will be when a teenager truly wants it for themselves.

“The most rewarding outcomes occur when the teenager initiates the request. While parental support is necessary, the teenager’s own desire must clearly be expressed, “explains a spokesperson for the ASPS.

(Source: OC Register)

Is your teenager considering getting plastic surgery? If so, please contact us to speak with a board certified plastic surgeon who can better inform you of the procedures and your options.