Teenage Plastic Surgery: Is It a Dangerous Trend or a Personal Choice?
Teenage plastic surgery is a topic that has been gaining attention in recent years. With the rise of social media and the pressure to look ‘perfect’, more and more teenagers are considering plastic surgery. But is this a dangerous trend or a personal choice? Let’s delve into this topic and explore the pros and cons of teenage plastic surgery.
The Rising Trend of Teenage Plastic Surgery
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number of teenagers getting plastic surgery has been on the rise. In 2018, over 229,000 cosmetic procedures were performed on patients aged 13 to 19. The most common procedures include rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), breast reduction or augmentation, and otoplasty (ear surgery).
The Pros of Teenage Plastic Surgery
There are several reasons why a teenager might choose to undergo plastic surgery. Some of these include:
Correcting a physical deformity: Some teenagers might have a physical deformity that causes them discomfort or affects their self-esteem. Plastic surgery can help correct these issues and improve their quality of life.
Improving self-esteem: Teenagers are often self-conscious about their appearance. If a particular feature is causing them distress, plastic surgery might help boost their self-esteem.
Health reasons: In some cases, plastic surgery might be necessary for health reasons. For example, a teenager with overly large breasts might experience back pain and other physical discomforts. A breast reduction surgery can help alleviate these symptoms.
The Cons of Teenage Plastic Surgery
While there are valid reasons for a teenager to undergo plastic surgery, there are also several risks and concerns associated with it:
Physical risks: Like any surgery, plastic surgery comes with risks. These can include infection, scarring, and complications from anesthesia.
Psychological impact: Teenagers are still developing emotionally and psychologically. Undergoing plastic surgery can have a significant impact on their mental health, especially if the results do not meet their expectations.
Unrealistic expectations: With the influence of social media and celebrities, teenagers might have unrealistic expectations about what plastic surgery can achieve. This can lead to dissatisfaction and further surgeries.
Conclusion
Teenage plastic surgery is a complex issue with no clear-cut answers. It can be a personal choice that brings about positive changes, but it can also be a dangerous trend fueled by societal pressures and unrealistic expectations. It’s crucial for teenagers, parents, and surgeons to thoroughly discuss the reasons, expectations, and potential risks before making a decision.
