In the past, plastic surgery tended to be used only by adults, especially women, to enhance their appearance through elective procedures. In recent years, however, cosmetic surgery has become a growing option for teens and young adults.
Topping the list of procedures that young people elect has been rhinoplasty, or a nose job.
A step that shouldn’t be taken lightly
The American Society for Aesthetic Surgery reports that roughly three percent of plastic surgeries are performed on teens every years. Rhinoplasty is by far the most popular option.
Many young adults are dissatisfied with the size and shape of their nose, and regard this as one of their most noticeable features. Many experience low self-esteem and feel extremely self-conscious. They see a nose job as the perfect solution to achieve a more ideal appearance and get a boost in confidence.
However, medical authorities recommended that teens proceed with caution. First, they need to wait until their nose stops growing: Sixteen is the typical age for boys, at least fourteen being advisable for girls. In addition, teens need to understand that surgery is never going to be the answer to all of their problems.
Experts suggest that the best time for a rhinoplasty is after high school graduation, which allows time for healing before the transition into college.
Some view plastic surgery as an answer to bullying
A thirteen-year-old girl recently made headlines when she chose rhinoplasty after a nasty bout of cyberbullying. When Nicolette Taylor moved to a new school in Long Island, tormenting on Facebook about her nose greeted her there.
After receiving painful messages at least five times a week, her parents backed her decision to get the procedure done. While it may have helped Nicolette, plastic surgery doesn’t usually address the heart of the matter. Someone has to find a way to stop the bullies.
Teens need to understand the issues of consent and the expense
As teens think about turning to rhinoplasty as the solution to all of their woes, they need to remember that parental consent is required. Most plastic surgeons will not even perform a rhinoplasty on any patient below the age of fifteen.
Even at fifteen, parents must grant permission for any type of cosmetic surgery. In addition, price is a major factor to be considered. Rhinoplasty and other forms of plastic surgery are regarded as elective procedures. Thus, these costly surgical operations are not reimbursed by insurance providers.
Rhinoplasty benefits can still outweigh the negatives
As young adults think about rhinoplasty, especially as college looms on the horizon, there are many potential benefits. An improved self-image tops the list.
However, undergoing a rhinoplasty can also help teens to breathe easier and sleep better. Many instances of snoring and sleep apnea can be traced back to problems with the nasal passages.
A nose job can correct such issues and stave off more serious health conditions down the line. These are among the issues that teens should consider in order to make an informed decision about undergoing rhinoplasty.
