What cosmetic procedures are common for teens and young adults?
Celebrity and influencer use of cosmetic procedures is a common topic of conversation among teens and younger adults, but these discussions can lead to an inaccurate or even harmful view of what procedures are available and their potential results.
Plastic surgeon Steven Schneeberger, MD, spoke with us about common cosmetic procedures for teens and young adults as the first part of our series on cosmetic procedures at every stage of life.
What are the most common cosmetic concerns among teens and young adults?
“In the teen and early adult years, people are usually concerned about their skin or improving their self-image,” said Dr. Schneeberger.
A younger patient may be looking to correct a misshapen nose or protruding ears, change up their breast size or shape, or minimize scarring or visible signs of severe acne.
These concerns tend to be rooted in developing confidence, not in anything to do with aging. Dr. Schneeberger noted that since physical features may still be maturing in teens and young adults, he chooses to focus on a more conservative approach that focuses on the patient’s health.
How can young people navigate peer pressure and social media influence when considering cosmetic procedures?
“Social media and peer comparison can heavily influence the desire for cosmetic changes, sometimes based on unrealistic ideals,” said Dr. Schneeberger. “For young adults and teens to successfully navigate this pressure, it’s essential for them to understand their personal motivation. Are they choosing to pursue treatment for themselves, or just to fit in or mimic filtered or edited images they’ve seen online?”
Dr. Schneeberger recommended that young patients interested in potential cosmetic procedures take time to reflect and speak with trusted friends and family or even a counselor to clarify whether they have a truly physical concern or perhaps an emotional one.
“An ethical medical provider will guide, educate and, when necessary, recommend waiting rather than rushing into procedures,” added Dr. Schneeberger. “The healthiest decisions come from self-directed goals, not external expectations.”
What is a good first step for young people who are interested in cosmetic procedures?
Dr. Scheeberger said early cosmetic care should focus on skin wellness as opposed to altering features. Medical-grade skincare, gentle chemical peels designed for delicate or younger skin, treatments like microdermabrasion or light-based therapies can all help to fight severe acne and improve skin health without changing facial structure or causing damage.
In addition, lifestyle changes like ensuring proper hydration, getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet and staying away from nicotine products like vaping or smoking and avoiding tanning beds can all play a role in keeping young skin healthy.
What questions should younger people ask during a cosmetic consultation?
“First off, don’t hesitate to bring along a trusted parent or friend for your initial consultation,” said Dr. Schneeberger. “It can help you feel more comfortable, and having someone with you can be beneficial when it comes to remembering all your questions. I also recommend bringing a list of questions to ask, to make sure we go through all your concerns.”
The goal of a cosmetic consultation is to help you gain a complete and clear understanding of treatment options available for your specific concerns, what results you can expect and to discuss an overall surgical or nonsurgical plan. That way, you’re making the most informed decision possible with confidence.
Common questions asked for a cosmetic consultation include:
- What procedures might work best for your stated concerns?
- What are the results likely to look like?
- How long will the results typically last?
- What will recovery after the procedure look and feel like?
- Are there any potential risks or complications you should know about?
- Will recovery require time away from school, work or other obligations?
- Will there be ongoing maintenance needed to maintain the results?
“It’s equally important that you understand who will perform the specific procedures,” said Dr. Schneeberger. “Make sure you verify their qualifications and that you’re comfortable with the environment where the treatment takes place. You’ll also want to be sure that your surgeon’s aesthetic ideals and their goals fit well with your own. Your surgeon should guide you with honesty, expertise and ethical judgement.”
A truly excellent consultation with a qualified, experienced and trustworthy surgeon should leave you informed, supported and never pressured. No matter your age, you should feel fully assured that you’re in the right hands.
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