 |
The
overall number of cosmetic procedures performed on teenagers
is increasing every year, however the percentage of them
(those 18 and younger) in the total number of plastic surgery
procedures has remained relatively constant. The most frequently
performed surgical procedures for this age group in 2002
and 2003 were nose reshaping (rhinoplasty) and prominent
ears correction (otoplasty).
Most experts agree that for teenage patients, cosmetic plastic
surgery can have a significant positive impact on physical
and emotional development. However, careful evaluation of
teenagers for Cosmetic Plastic Surgery is mandatory.
For the majority of congenital plastic reconstructive operations,
no strict age limit exists. Reconstructive procedures for
acquired problems are commonly performed during growth period
and later.
Regarding cosmetic procedures we would like to emphasize
that it is not necessary to wait until the patient has reached
18 years of age. It is at the surgeon’s discretion
as to when a particular procedure should be performed.
|
