
Can Teens Have Plastic Surgery?
Certain procedures are typically considered inappropriate for teens in most cases, such as breast enlargement, liposuction and cheek implants. Others, however, can be medically beneficial.
Common plastic surgery procedures performed on teens include:
Rhinoplasty: Commonly known as a nose job, rhinoplasty is the most common procedure requested by teens. It is often used to treat a deviated septum, not just for cosmetic purposes. Before considering this type of surgery, the nose must have reached its adult size – this usually happens by age 15 or 16 in girls and by age 16 or 17 in boys.
Otoplasty: Also known as ear pinning, otoplasty can be done as early as age 5 or 6 in most cases.
Breast Asymmetry Correction: This is often performed when one breast is different from the other in its size or shape. Many doctors advise waiting until the breasts are fully developed. This may be appropriate for females as young as age 15.
Breast Reduction: Breast reductions can be performed on girls as young as 15 who are embarrassed by overly large breasts, or who are struggling with shoulder pain, back pain or trouble breathing due to the size of their breasts.
Gynecomastia: This is a procedure used to treat excessive breast development in male teens. Abnormally large male breasts may disappear at the end of puberty, but surgery can correct it in some cases. Surgery is usually an option if gynecomastia has been present for more than two years or if the problem is severe.
Acne Treatment: For teens with acne, several treatment options are available. Microdermabrasion can remove the upper layers of the skin to improve skin irregularities. This can also help remove acne scars. Chemical peels can unblock the pores, open blackheads and whiteheads and stimulate new skin growth among teens with acne. Laser techniques may be used to smooth skin scarring as a result of acne. In some cases, collagen or other skin fillers are used as well.
If your teen is considering plastic surgery, contact David W. Allison, MD at 703-754-8228 or website to schedule a consultation with Dr. Allison.