Breast Augmentation and Teens

For teenage girls growing up today, there is so much pressure to feel the need to have perfect bodies, perfect skin, perfect hair…and a perfect chest.  Actors, magazines, and models are the role models.  Regardless of the fact that teens know that all the photos they look at are edited in a program, many still yearn to be skinnier, prettier, and “better”. Do you think this pressure may be causing some teenage girls to prematurely go under the knife?

Teen breast augmentation is nothing new. There’s been debate for years over the subject.  Dr Phil even covered the topic in an episode on his show.  Some have said that there is greater risk of complications for those who are under 18 years old, although I am not sure of that:  with any plastic surgery procedure, there are potential risks for patients of any age, and there haven’t really been any true studies conducted on the topic.

Something to consider however, is that some teens develop faster than others.  Many 16 year-olds have already reached their adult breast size.   On the other hand, breast development in some women can continue into the early 20’s.  Here are a few things I recommend if you as a parent are confronted by your teen about breast augmentation.

• Unless there is a congenital defect (a defect in the breast that has been present since birth) a woman really needs to be over 18 (over 21 for silicone implants).
• The parents should be included in the decision (or at least the Mom) unless the young woman is living independently.
• Choose a doctor who takes precise anatomic measurements in order to suggest an implant that will not cause complications.

Making the decision to get a breast augmentation is not something to take lightly as a young woman.   For some there isn’t really a solid amount of time to truly understand who they are . . . this is on a much deeper level.  Read, “I am an Emotional Creature” by Eve Ensler to understand the influences on young women today.

There is nothing wrong with wanting to have breasts that you feel great about, and there are some women who are just not born them. But before jumping in (if you are a teen) and before giving in (if you are a parent), be sure to have a full consultation to ensure the procedure is done in a safe and smart way.

Schedule your consultation today!
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