Number of Teens Seeking Plastic Surgery Soars

September 28, 2006
The teenage years are awkward for most people. It's a time fraught with change and self-conscious body anxieties. Now, many teens seem to be looking to cosmetic plastic surgery to alleviate some of those anxieties.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 40 percent of all teens aspire to have plastic surgery. Last year alone, more than 331,000 cosmetic procedures were performed on teens 18 and younger.

Teen Plastic Surgery: Benefits and Risks

Teens who have had plastic surgery say it helps boost their self-confidence. Rita Demetriou, who underwent breast augmentation, liposuction, and rhinoplasty at 18, said, “I love myself. I think I have had my self-esteem boosted.”

However, doctors warn that teens stand a greater risk of disappointment, especially where changes are subtle. Another risk for teens undergoing plastic surgery is fixation.

“They can start to experience a body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) where they start focusing on slight idiosyncrasies…wanting more surgery,” said psychologist Dr. Patricia Clark.

Inappropriate vs. Appropriate Procedures

Breast enhancement, liposuction, and cheek implants all pose certain risks if performed on an individual prior to adulthood. Because the body continues to develop throughout adolescence, breast implants and liposuction should not be performed before adulthood.

Similarly, having cheek implants too early could lead to disappointment, since the changes may be too subtle for a young person to gauge.

Rhinoplasty, otoplasty, breast reduction (in males and females), and chin augmentation are all teenage appropriate procedures.

If your teen is considering cosmetic plastic surgery, it is important to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon who can fully explain options as well as risks and benefits. Please contact us today to schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.

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