With Keeping up with the Kardashians’ 17-year-old reality star Kylie Jenner causing a stir recently over rumors that she had lip injections and breast augmentation, many people are wondering if there is, or should be, an age limit on plastic surgery. Recently, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reported that, in 2014, the total number of cosmetic procedures performed on patients 13-19 year-olds was 224,079. Since parental consent is required for plastic surgery patients under the age of 18, there are a few factors that both teens and their parents should consider before making a permanent decision about plastic surgery.

Does Their Physical Appearance Make Them Socially Withdrawn?

Teenagers may wish to correct a part of their appearance, like a misshapen nose or severe acne and scarring, in order to avoid standing out from their peers or even getting bullied for their differences. Teenagers who have plastic surgery to correct these physical issues often find that they gain confidence and self-esteem, and are less inclined to be socially withdrawn as a result.

Will Plastic Surgery Alleviate Their Physical Discomfort?

Often, teenagers who suffer pain from a physical characteristic, such as large, heavy breasts, wish to have plastic surgery to alleviate those symptoms. Breast reduction surgery, performed on over 40,000 teen patients last year alone, can alleviate painful back and shoulder pain and discomfort resulting from heavy breasts.

Are They Emotionally and Physically Mature?

Before undergoing plastic surgery, the ASPS recommends that teenagers be both physically and emotionally mature enough to handle the surgery. This means that their bodies are fully developed so that their physical problems are sure not to be naturally corrected through time from the body’s natural development process. This way the effects of their plastic surgery will remain stable, and not change as a result of the further development. Regarding their emotional maturity, it is important that the teen who is considering surgery is not abusing alcohol or substances, is not prone to mood swings or erratic behavior, and does not suffer from depression or any other mental illness.

Are Their Expectations of Plastic Surgery Realistic?

A teenager should have the ability to understand the details involved with the procedure as well as the inherent risks that are included. Teenagers who are considering plastic surgery should also consider its limitations as well as its benefits. They need to be aware that, although plastic surgery can significantly enhance a person’s self-esteem, it isn’t the end-all cure for such problems as low self-esteem or social anxiety.

Is the Plastic Surgeon Board Certified?

No matter what the age of the patient, it is imperative that they have a reputable surgeon to discuss their procedure with and ask any questions they may have. This doctor should be board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), an accreditation that reflects the highest standard of patient care. Dr. Francis Johns is an ABPS board-certified plastic surgeon who focuses on the individual needs of every patient. If you or your teenager are considering plastic surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Johns today by calling Artisan Plastic Surgery at 877-245-6467.