We have Articles, Videos & Advice
Breast Enlargement Articles
02.08.08
Teens and Plastic Surgery
Most teens go through an awkward growth phase as they get older and mature. They often turn to plastic surgery so that they can improve the “flawed” physical characteristics of their bodies, and to fit in and look more similar to their peers.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), teenagers are mostly concerned with reshaping their noses, correcting their protruding ears, oversized and asymmetrical breasts and severe acne. Teens typically gain confidence and self esteem, while reversing the feelings of social withdrawal. 2006 Statistics by the ASPS show that 93, 966 cosmetic surgery procedures were performed on those ages 13-19.
The ASPS reports that in 2006, 33% of teenagers had Otoplasty (ear reshaping), 16% had Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), followed by the next common procedures which were breast augmentation at 3% and liposuction at 2%. Teenage boys accounted for 70% of the cosmetic surgery procedures performed on teens in 2006 with gynecomastia (male breast reduction).
The ASPS reports that in 2006, 33% of teenagers had Otoplasty (ear reshaping), 16% had Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), followed by the next common procedures which were breast augmentation at 3% and liposuction at 2%. Teenage boys accounted for 70% of the cosmetic surgery procedures performed on teens in 2006 with gynecomastia (male breast reduction).
Various studies have also shown that teenagers who ask for plastic surgery are mostly dissatisfied with areas of the body that are stereotyped as idealized features, especially in book, mass media and advertisements. With reality plastic surgery shows such as MTV’s “I Want a Famous Face,” the actuality of surgery is highlighted, presenting the benefits as well as the risks surgery carries.
Teenagers should always remember that having realistic expectations about plastic surgery is very important. Teenagers should be cautioned that expecting to look like someone else through plastic surgery might not end successfully, since everyone has unique features.
Teenagers should always remember that having realistic expectations about plastic surgery is very important. Teenagers should be cautioned that expecting to look like someone else through plastic surgery might not end successfully, since everyone has unique features.
The ASPS concludes that a teenager will make a good candidate for plastic surgery if he/she:
- Initiates the request and exhibits desire for plastic surgery repeatedly over a period of time.
- Has a realistic goal about the benefits and the limitations of plastic surgery.
- Has a maturity level for tolerating the discomfort of a surgical procedure.
A teenager should be well suited for the operation. A Board Certified Plastic Surgeon can assess a teen’s emotional maturity and understanding of the changes plastic surgery brings about.
