Plastic Surgery for Children

Plastic surgery is typically considered something for adults, but there are situations when children can benefit from cosmetic procedures as well. Cosmetic surgeons can fix deformities children are born with, scars that occur after injuries, and other potentially traumatic problems in children. This allows them to lead a normal life, free from the teasing that often comes from these problems. If you are a parent considering plastic surgery for your child, here are some things to consider.

Functional Versus Cosmetic

Some cosmetic procedures for children actually have a functional purpose in addition to the cosmetic benefit. For instance, children born with certain facial deformities may not be able to use their mouths properly. This can affect their ability to eat, drink, and talk. A cleft palate is an example of this type of deformity. Sometimes cosmetic surgeons can repair this deformity to improve the child’s appearance as well as the functionality of the affected body part.

Some parents are willing to allow their children to have plastic surgery for purely cosmetic reasons. In this situation, you must decide exactly what you are comfortable with. Do not allow outside influences to pressure you or your child into surgery. Remember, the results of these procedures are permanent, and only a future surgery will change them.

Restoring Appearance After Injury

A bad fall, a dog bite, or a car accident can all leave behind disfiguring scars. When these scars are quite visible, particularly when they are on the face, they can make a lasting impact on the child’s emotional well being. Sometimes, plastic surgery can improve the look of these scars, helping to restore the child’s appearance to what it was prior to the accident. Medical doctors may even call on cosmetic surgeons in these scenarios when closing the wound to do so in such a way that it creates less visible scars.

Emotional Considerations

As your child’s parent, you have the job of not only providing for his physical needs, but also for his emotional needs. You must decide what message plastic surgery will give to your child. No matter what the physical deformity or scarring issue your child has, you need to teach your child that she is great simply the way she is. You do not want to give your child the impression that a procedure will make her more likable or earn more of your love. However, if your child is growing up with emotional problems due to a disfigurement that can be fixed, you may be able to provide the right amount of emotional love and support by allowing your child to get a procedure done. It is up to you to decide what emotions are involved in the situation, and what your child is ready to handle.