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Summer is here, and school is out!
With the summer break upon us, now is the ideal time to consider a cosmetic procedure for your child or teenager, such as otoplasty, rhinoplasty, gynecomastia surgery, or laser treatment.
While there are only a few plastic surgery procedures available to children and teenagers, this age range is a definite demographic. Learn more about which procedures are available to the younger generation and what they need to know to get them through their procedure and ready for the new school year this fall.
Why Do Children and Teenagers Consider Plastic Surgery?
While the concept of teenage plastic surgery is sometimes misunderstood, many young men and women desire to get cosmetic enhancement. The most important thing to remember is that plastic surgery options are limited to this young age range, with only certain procedures offered.
Among these include:
- Otoplasty (ear surgery)
- Rhinoplasty (nose surgery)
- Gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction)
- Breast reduction surgery
- Laser resurfacing treatments
- Chemical peels
- Reconstructive procedures
Children and teens often turn to plastic surgery to improve their appearance or their ability to function. While low self-esteem is a factor in cosmetic surgery for teenagers, many children need reconstructive procedures to help correct a defect on their face or body.
Some children are bothered by ears that protrude far from their heads. Some teenagers suffer from misshapen noses, over-developed breasts, or significant acne scarring.
Plastic surgery is available to help with these types of conditions.
Additionally, congenital disabilities can be successfully corrected with cosmetic surgery. Some children are born with physical defects such as cleft lips and palates or an ear deformity. Other children seek plastic surgery after traumatic injuries, such as burns or dog bites, that have affected their appearance.
Which Types of Plastic Surgery Procedures Can Be Performed on Kids and Teens?
Otoplasty
Otoplasty is a common surgical procedure available to kids and teens. This surgery pins protruding ears closer to the head and reshapes abnormally prominent ears.
Since the ears are nearly fully developed by the age of five, it is appropriate for patients of nearly any age.
Rhinoplasty
Nose surgery is common among teens and adults to correct the effects of nasal trauma (i.e., broken noses) or adjust cosmetic concerns like bumps, humps, crooked noses, and flared nostrils.
Your nose must be fully developed to be a candidate for rhinoplasty. This usually occurs at 13 to 16 for girls and 17 to 18 for boys.
Breast Reduction
Both teenage girls and boys can develop oversized breasts that cause ridicule and physical discomfort. Breast reduction (for girls) and gynecomastia surgery (for boys) can help eliminate some of this excess.
Teenage girls considering breast reduction must have fully developed breasts. Teenage boys must be sure that their enlarged breasts will not go away on their own.
Skin Resurfacing
As many teens can relate, acne can be a serious problem. Therefore, chemical peels and laser treatments can help eliminate scarring from previous acne outbreaks.
How Long Will It Take for Kids or Teens to Recover From Plastic Surgery?
The exact amount of time a child or teen takes to recover from plastic surgery will depend on their overall health and the type of surgery performed.
This is why it is essential to schedule a consultation now if you are concerned about them being recovered before school starts.
Traditionally, patients can expect to be recovered:
- Within one to two weeks of otoplasty (although some swelling can last up to six weeks)
- Within two weeks of rhinoplasty (although internal bruising and swelling can linger for up to a year)
- Within two to six weeks after breast reduction (male or female)
- Within one to two weeks of a non-surgical treatment like a chemical peel or laser treatment
Even after this initial recovery period, kids and teens will need to be mindful of their activity levels. They will be given more accurate recovery information during their consultation with Dr. Hiatt.
Are You or Your Teen Considering Plastic Surgery?
Dr. Hiatt is board certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), which ensures that he has the training and experience to provide a safe and effective procedure. He is also a member of the prestigious American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and The Aesthetic Society (ASAPS). To schedule your consultation with Dr. Hiatt, please call (480) 844-1410 or fill out our online consultation form.
We look forward to helping you achieve the appearance you desire!
The post Summer Is Here! Which Plastic Surgery Procedures Will Have Your Children Recovered by the New School Year? appeared first on Karl B. Hiatt, MD.
