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Teens and Plastic Surgery
In the past, many who underwent plastic surgery came from wealthy backgrounds; however, as plastic surgery becomes increasingly popular and with more financing options available, people from all economic backgrounds are discovering plastic surgery. New York's Jennifer Sinco of Newsday reports about the growing trend among teens.
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The number of cosmetic surgeries on people under 18 years of age has risen dramatically over the past decade, from 60,000 in 1997 to 205,000 in 2007. Though the number leveled off over the past few years, cosmetic plastic surgery on teenagers drew media coverage after an 18-year-old girl died following a procedure in March. Though this story highlighted the risk involved in any surgical procedure, younger patients are less likely to develop complications because they are generally healthier and do not have heart or circulation problems. Older patients who undergo multiple procedures are most at-risk. Many doctors turn away teenagers who want breast implants, urging their parents to make them wait until they turn 18. Surgeons also need to analyze the patient's motives and maturity to make sure that they are prepared for the surgery. One surgeon said that plastic surgery is commonly done "during periods of transition," so many teenagers have procedures during the summer between high school and college.
Though nose jobs and breast implants still cost thousands of dollars, it seems the growing acceptance of plastic surgery has triggered a more casual attitude toward the trend of discovering greater self confidence through an improved body image.