Young Patients Pursuing Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery
One of the most frequently discussed topics in plastic surgery relate to young adults choosing to undergo cosmetic procedures. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery’s 2012 statistics, more than 130,000 patients under the age of 18 received a cosmetic or reconstructive procedure last year. While some procedures such as facelift and breast lift surgery address the signs of aging, procedures such as rhinoplasty, otoplasty, and breast reduction are the most commonly performed procedures among younger patients. Many young patients choose procedures to address concerns that could affect their overall health including respiratory problems from a deviated septum and poor posture and back problems due to overly large breasts.
The highly skilled plastic surgeons of Atlanta Plastic Surgery perform cosmetic and reconstructive procedures on patients of all ages. Many patients choose a procedure to address functional concerns, but some also choose procedures for aesthetic reasons. Adolescence is a time of development where individuals’ self-image is greatly influenced, so it is very important that patients reach a level of both physical and emotional maturity. Additionally, patients should maintain realistic expectations of results and discuss their questions during consultation.
Rhinoplasty and otoplasty are two common procedures for younger patients as they address functional facial issues. Rhinoplasty (nose surgery) can correct breathing obstructions such as a deviated septum and otoplasty (ear surgery) addresses too small or too large of ears that obstruct hearing. Otoplasty may also be performed to realign the ears to a more symmetrical position so the patient can wear glasses or hearing aids if necessary.
Breast reduction surgery is common for both adolescent male and female patients. Overly large breasts can cause poor posture, back and neck pain, and/or negative self-image. While men do not experience the same physical pain as female patients, men with enlarged breasts often experience lower self-esteem and embarrassment from their breasts. Gynecomastia, a medical condition for overly large male breasts, affects men of all age groups, body shapes, and weights. Our surgeons will discuss treatment plans to achieve a more proportionate result with each patient.
It is important for each patient to schedule an in-person consultation to discuss aesthetic goals and understand procedures with a board certified plastic surgeon. Contact us today if you’re interested in any body, breast or facial procedure and be sure to connect with Atlanta Plastic Surgery on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
