Breast implants are legal for teens, and according to data recently released by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, approximately 4100 girls ages 18 and younger got breast implants in 2008. The figure was a little less than 50 percent of the augmentations done in 2007.
According to data recently released by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, approximately 4100 girls ages 18 and younger got breast implants in 2008. The figure was a little less than 50 percent of the augmentations done in 2007.
If those figures are disturbing, keep in mind that some of these young women experienced micromastia, or underdeveloped breasts, and some had breasts that developed asymmetrically. For instance, one breast might be an A or B cup, while the other a C or D cup.
Of course, some teens simply wanted implants to enhance their appearance. Regardless of the reason, choosing to get breast implants can be a bigger decision than it seems at first glance.
Breast augmentation can require additional surgery within 10 to 15 years, which could mean several trips under the knife for a patient whose first augmentation is during her teens.
Although the FDA has approved breast implants only for women ages 18 and older, there are no legal restrictions on the procedure. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons has an official position against breast augmentation for most teens younger than 18, but there’s no enforcement.
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery has no official position regarding augmentation for teenagers.
When plastic surgery is the best decision for a teen, parental guidance is always crucial. When teens have surgery for the right reasons, often for congenital breast deformities, the positive benefit in terms of self esteem and quality of life is often profound.
Before and after pictures can be persuasive, but it’s more important to select a board certified plastic surgeon whose first priority is the patient’s long-term health.
