KATV Channel 7 - The Spirit of Arkansas: Teens and Plastic Surgery

Teens and Plastic Surgery

How young is too young for plastic surgery?  Every year the number of teens having plastic surgery goes up.  A lost of teenagers would like to change their appearance, but to what lengths should parents allow them to make that change?  According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, in 2010 more than 4,000 teens under the age of 18 had injectable procedures like Botox.  They say more than 33,000 had cosmetic surgery.  Most pediatricians agree that plastic surgery is a reasonable option if your child has suffered an injury.  But, for simply cosmetic reasons, they say parents and teens need to take their time before making a permanent life-altering decision.  Most of the time, doctors say that teens concerns about their appearance lessen over time.  Usually, as people get older, they become more comfortable and accepting of themselves.  Experts say parents can help by encouraging their kids to appreciate and cultivate their strengths not just their looks.  Recognize things in your child like their attitude, spunk, intelligence, sense of humor.  As a family, doctors say, you should emphasize the value of those characteristics instead of your child's appearance.