Are You Still Too Young to Get Plastic Surgery?

It’s no secret that many undergo plastic surgery to improve their appearance. But there’s often a debate about the appropriate age for someone to have plastic surgery.

Thousands of people in their twenties and younger get plastic surgery yearly. After all, plastic surgery is a personal decision made after careful consideration.

But first…

Is There an Age Requirement for Getting Plastic Surgery?

While there’s no rule, many surgeons agree that 18 is the minimum age for most procedures. Patients are already mature enough to decide on their bodies at this age.

Plus, most plastic surgeries require fully developed bodies, typically occurring around 18 years of age.

Yet, there are always exceptions to the rule. Some surgeons may be willing to perform specific procedures on younger patients.

But you must consult with an experienced and board-certified surgeon who can evaluate your case.

Plastic Surgeries for Teenagers and their Risks

Various plastic surgeries are available for people under 18 – and they’re primarily facial plastic surgeries.

Some of the most common procedures include:

Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

It turns out that most surgeons perform rhinoplasty on girls over 15 or 16 and a year later for boys. After all, the nose has typically finished growing around those ages.

Even so, there are some exceptions. Teenagers with a medical condition affecting the nose may have surgery sooner.

But there are a few risks to keep in mind when you get rhinoplasty at a young age, such as:

• Breathing problems. Any changes to its structure can affect breathing. And it’s mainly a risk for teenagers who have not yet finished growing.
• Scarring. Although scars will usually fade over time, they may be visible after rhinoplasty. Teenagers should be aware of this before deciding to undergo the procedure.
• Dissatisfaction. If the nose is still growing during this time, the final results of the surgery may not show for several years.

Otoplasty (Ear Reshaping)

This cosmetic procedure alters the shape of the ears. And while teenagers and even children can certainly undergo otoplasty, you shouldn’t make decisions lightly. It is vital to consider the risks and benefits before surgery.

With that said, here are the risks of otoplasty for teenagers:

• Results may not be permanent. The bones in a child’s skull are still growing, leading to impermanent results.
• Prone to scarring. Teenagers’ skin is more delicate and prone to scarring than adults. So there’s a greater risk of visible scarring following surgery.
• Regrets. Since teenagers’ features are still developing, they may not be happy with surgery results as they age.

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

One source of frustration for teens is their eyes. Specifically, many teens feel self-conscious about their eyelids.

If you’re a teenager considering blepharoplasty, there are a few things you need to know, such as:

• Undergoing any surgery can be a stressful experience. Ensure you’re psychologically and emotionally ready for the surgery.
• There are potential risks and complications associated with blepharoplasty. These risks include infection, scarring, and asymmetry.