Choosing the Right Time
The teen years are a time of change as young people work at developing
a sense of physical self-image. During this time, self-esteem is linked
with body image. When the teenager expresses serious concerns about
a body image feature, discuss it with him or her. It's important that
the change be something the teen wants - not something the parents
or friends want.
If this is the case, make an appointment with a plastic surgeon. The
physician will discuss the situation, recommend an appropriate procedure
and help the teenager and his or her parents decide if the time is
right for surgery.
In deciding when the time is right for cosmetic surgery, it is important
to consider teenagers' social and emotional adjustment. A teen should
understand that no one is perfect and that perfection is no guarantee
of success or happiness.
Teens for whom plastic surgery is appropriate consistently report
enhanced self-esteem as a result of their surgery. They simply "feel
good about themselves."