Cosmetic surgery is not just an adult's luxury. It is not uncommon for a teen to ask for some type of procedure for a birthday or graduation instead of the latest cell phone or a trip to the beach. How did this happen? Think back; remember how difficult those teen years were. The most important thing is to fit in, which often means conforming to the ideal version of the cheerleader, the prom queen or the jock. Yes, as an adult, we know the changes are superficial, but to a teen, it can mean the difference in being popular or being an outcast.
The most popular procedures are breast reduction among boys, rhinoplasty and ear pinning. The reasons for their popularity are obvious. But, before you agree to fulfill your teen's dream of acceptance by letting him or her have cosmetic surgery, it is important to talk to them and find out what their motivations are. Are they being teased because the ears stick out or because the nose is too big? Or, do they simply assume that people are making fun of their looks? As a boy, the locker room can be quite intimidating, especially if he doesn't have an athletic build. But, it is quite possible that there are bigger underlying issues that have nothing to do with the superficial and a change to the outside may not fix what's wrong on the inside. After talking with your teen, additional counseling may be necessary to address the psychological issues.
Not only are there psychological issues to address, there are age limitations too. The body is still growing throughout the teen years. Different areas grow at different rates so certain procedures have age recommendations. Breast implants are not approved for patients lesser than 18 years of age unless it is for reconstructive reasons as a result of disease or disfigurement. Rhinoplasty is not recommended until 15 or 16 for girls. Boys should wait another year to ensure growth is complete. While your teen may think they look awkward and disproportionate, give their body time to finish growing before considering surgical alterations.
Also, you want to make sure your teen is mature enough to handle a surgical procedure. Some cosmetic procedures have an extensive recovery time. The swelling, bruising and pain may be too traumatic for an immature teen. Make sure you and the surgeon discuss in great detail what to expect before, during and after surgery to allow your teen to mentally prepare. They may think that they have researched it enough on the Internet, but a consultation with an actual doctor will be their best source of information.
Don't forget the risks that are involved in any type of surgical procedure. There is always a chance that the body will have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia, general or local. Always verify the credentials of the surgeon and make sure he is board certified to perform the procedure. This is your child and you would not to take any chances with their health. Decide together if cosmetic surgery will help boost your teen's self-esteem and confidence and that the benefits outweigh the risks.
The last thing you should do is give in to tears and pleading from your teen and jump in to this blindly. If given careful consideration, cosmetic surgery can be a positive event for your teen and bring his or her out of the shell. Their inner beauty can shine when they feel better about their outer beauty.
Author Resource:-
Cosmetic surgery Washington DC provides facility for all surgeries like rhinoplasty, facelift, breast augmentation etc. The board certified plastic surgeons here share an aesthetic sensibility and a desire to understand you, your teen and the entire family to achieve the most natural looking results. Visit http://www.cpsdocs.com/ for details.
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