Minimum Age for Cosmetic Procedures

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has set minimum ages for cosmetic procedures. As a department of Health and Human Services, the administration seeks to protect teenagers from harm. As the teenage body is still growing, it is important to understand what age an individual should reach before undergoing a procedure.

Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is cosmetic surgery on the nose. It is commonly referred to as a “nose job”. While this procedure can be performed on men or women at any age, it is recommended that girls wait until they are at least 13 to 14 years of age and boys wait until they are at least 14 to 15 years of age. At these ages, the nose is fully developed, so it is preferred by surgeons. Since teenagers are still maturing, it is often likely they will grow out of their desire to have rhinoplasty. Therefore, unless the surgery is being done to repair damage, doctors highly recommend the teenager waits until they are older to make this decision.

Liposuction

While there is not a set age limit for liposuction, it should not be performed before a child is 17 or 18. Before that age, teenagers are still developing psychologically, physically, and emotionally. Surgeons often recommend teenagers attend counseling to deal with body image issues before turning to surgery.

Breast Implants

Breast augmentation may be performed on any girl over the age of 18. However, the surgery may be performed at any age for corrective purposes. The average age for the procedure ranges between 19 and 34 years.

Contact Us

If you are considering plastic surgery, contact Austin plastic surgeon Dr. Apostolakis, M.D. at 512-329-8989 today.