As adults we may have many reasons we wish to undergo cosmetic surgery. However, it is not unheard of for patients younger than 18 to desire cosmetic procedures. The right time for cosmetic surgery largely depends on the specifics of the procedure and the circumstances of each individual.
Reconstructive or cosmetic rhinoplasty may be performed to improve nasal passages or correct distortion in the nose’s symmetry. This procedure is usually recommended after facial growth is complete, which is around age 15 for girls and 16 for boys.
Breast augmentation is regulated by the FDA and not allowed on patients younger than 18. Often this is requested in teenagers to fix asymmetry when one breast is larger than the other. However, it is still advisable to delay augmentation until breasts are fully grown, sometime around 18-19 years of age.
Breast reduction, however, can often be required for health and quality of life reasons, when the size of the breasts limits a teenager’s sports and recreational activities. Heavy breasts can cause women and teens to suffer from back, neck and shoulder pain, and skin irritation. Not to mention, larger breasts can be a cause for unwelcome comments and discomfort in athletics and high impact exercise. Depending on physical development, teens wishing to undergo breast reduction should be at least 15 years of age.
Breast reduction in young men suffering from gynecomastia can work wonders in self-esteem, especially in the teen years. Gynecomastia accounts for over 25% of surgeries in men ages 13-19. Gynecomastia reduces the size of male breasts through liposuction and/or glandular tissue removal.
Otoplasty, or ear surgery, corrects protruding ears and may be done as early as age 5. By this age, ears are fully grown. Otoplasty can correct other ear problems such as lop ear, when the tip of the ear seems to be folded, cupped ear or shell ear. Otoplasty can also repair missing folds and creases to restore a natural appearance.
Microdermabrasion on teens age 13 and up can help to “fix” or “refinish” the skin to reduce or remove scars due to acne. Other acne related treatments may include laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, and Botox to even out the skin surface.
Mole removal is another cosmetic procedure that’s safe to do at an early age. Moles, especially on the face, can be unsightly and embarrassing, especially in teens it may lower self-esteem. Mole removal by a board certified plastic surgeon ensures scarring is minimal or non-existent.
Liposuction among teens is a trickier issue. Most surgeons will not consider teenagers younger than 18. Surgeons will often suggest counseling as well as discussing with the patient the goal and outcome of having liposuction.
Before undergoing any procedure, teens and parents should receive a thorough consultation on the risks, benefits, and expectations of cosmetic surgery.
