Aesthetic Procedures for Young Adults (+18)
Both digital advancements and developments in healthcare have introduced a new lifestyle model. We increasingly use platforms such as Zoom in our professional and social lives. The widespread culture of selfies and the growing visibility of social media influencers, along with their power to affect large audiences, have led us to re-question the concept of beauty. In short, the world is experiencing new habits in the field of aesthetics and beauty. Particularly with the extensive use of digital communication tools, demand for aesthetic procedures at a younger age has risen significantly.
BEFORE THE AGE OF 18
When aesthetic concerns are the primary motivation, it is essential to wait until the body has completed its development — that is, until the age of 18. It is a fact that compared to the past, we now see a surge in demand at earlier ages, especially for medical aesthetic procedures. For example, lip fillers and many other non-surgical aesthetic applications are increasingly being requested by younger individuals. Ethical principles must be carefully observed when it comes to aesthetic treatments for young people. In this respect, not only the aesthetic surgeon but also the family and even the school have important responsibilities.
Plastic surgical procedures that may be performed before the age of 18 include prominent ear correction (otoplasty) and excessive breast growth seen in adolescent girls. Addressing these issues through early aesthetic surgical intervention can be beneficial for the young patient’s physical and psychological well-being. Likewise, treatments for trauma-related conditions can be performed at any age. For example, reattachment of severed organs or skin treatments after burns fall within the scope of reconstructive plastic surgery.
PARENTAL CONSENT IS REQUIRED
When a young person presents for treatment and is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present. Legal consent from family elders is mandatory for both surgical and non-surgical procedures in individuals under 18. If the chosen treatment is medically necessary, it should be performed. This is where ethical considerations come into play. Particularly for irreversible procedures such as surgery, medical necessity must be the primary criterion. All risks must be clearly explained to the patient. Performing treatments based solely on arbitrary wishes may not be appropriate.
CAUTION WITH FILLERS
Filler treatments should definitely not be applied to individuals under the age of 18. Since bodily development is not yet complete, such procedures can lead to problematic outcomes.
SKIN TREATMENTS CAN BE PERFORMED
Skin issues commonly seen in young people, such as acne and similar conditions, can be treated at an early stage. With legal consent from family members, these treatments can be performed and often yield successful results.
Regardless of the reason, it is crucial to ensure that all treatments for young individuals are truly necessary.
