What to Do if Your Teen Is Asking for Plastic Surgery
If your teenager has recently brought up the idea of getting a plastic surgery procedure, it can feel surprising, or even a little overwhelming, as a parent. Your first reaction may be to say no right away. But before you decide, it is important to understand why your teen is asking and what options may be appropriate.
Fort Worth Plastic Surgeon Dr. Emily Kirby is fellowship-trained in pediatric and craniofacial plastic surgery, as well as a mother of two. She helps guide parents through plastic surgery for teens when it is advisable (and when it is not), so you and your teen can together make an informed decision.
Start with a Conversation
Ask your teen what they dislike about the feature they want to change, how long they have felt this way, and what they expect surgery will achieve. An open approach sets the tone for a collaborative process, rather than a debate. The concern may stem from teasing at school or social media comparisons, or it may be tied to a long-standing physical difference that affects their self-esteem.
Understand Which Procedures May Be Appropriate for Teens
Many plastic surgery procedures are not advisable for someone who is still growing. Reputable surgeons like Dr. Kirby typically recommend waiting until facial and body growth is nearly complete before considering surgical treatment. However, there are exceptions where plastic surgery for teens can be safe and beneficial.
For example, Dr. Kirby performs otoplasty (ear pinning or ear reshaping) as early as age 6 once ear growth is nearly complete and often into the teen years, to reduce prominent ears or correct asymmetry. Ear surgery at a young age can help improve self-confidence and avoid bullying.
Gynecomastia (excess or enlarged male breast tissue) affects almost 70% of boys between 10-19 years old, and Dr. Kirby performs male breast reduction in Fort Worth if the condition has not resolved with time or weight changes.
Breast asymmetry is a common concern among teenage girls, with noticeable differences in size or shape between breasts affecting self-confidence and clothing fit. Dr. Kirby may recommend correction once breast development is complete (typically age 22 or older), though in cases of severe asymmetry causing significant physical or psychological distress, surgery may be considered earlier. Procedures can include breast augmentation, reduction, or breast lift techniques to achieve better balance and symmetry.
Breast reduction surgery for teens addresses macromastia (excessively large breasts) that causes physical symptoms such as chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain, skin irritation, difficulty exercising, and poor posture. Dr. Kirby evaluates teen candidates carefully, ideally waiting until breast development has stabilized. When large breasts significantly impact a teen’s quality of life, daily activities, and emotional well-being, reduction surgery can provide relief and restore confidence.
Trending cosmetic procedures for younger patients seen on social media, such as “cat eye” lifts (a form of brow lift), should not be performed on teens. Surgery can interfere with body growth. And growth may change initial surgical results. Typically, a trend’s popularity is too short-lived to commit to a specialized look and remain pleased with the results long term.
Schedule a Consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
If you are considering your teen’s request, the next step is a consultation with Dr. Kirby. During the consultation at our Fort Worth plastic surgery office, Dr. Kirby and our team:
- Review your teen’s medical history
- Evaluate whether their growth is complete
- Discuss realistic expectations and limitations
- Explain surgical and non-surgical options, if available
Dr. Kirby has extensive experience treating younger patients and takes care to ensure that any decision is made based on safety, maturity, and a clear understanding of the procedure.
Consider Emotional Readiness as Much as Physical Readiness
Your teen’s emotional maturity is equally important as their physical development. They should be able to understand the risks and recovery process, and their motivation should come from a personal desire for change and not trends or pressure from peers. Dr. Kirby may recommend postponing a procedure if she believes it is in your teen’s best interest to wait.
“Dr. Kirby and her entire staff truly exemplify outstanding professionalism and compassion. Dr. Kirby herself took the time to explain every aspect of the surgical process. If you are searching for a highly skilled surgeon who combines expertise with genuine kindness, I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Kirby and her staff. You will be in excellent hands.”
Supporting Your Teen (With or Without Surgery)
If surgery is not recommended or your family decides against it, you can still support your teen in other ways:
- Offer professional skin care, if appropriate. We offer several non-invasive skincare treatments to address skin concerns for teens (clogged pores, blackheads, acne, and acne scars) at our in-house Fort Worth medical spa and help them find the right skincare regimen for their skin type.
- Discuss healthy boundaries with friends and social media use, especially if your teen’s concerns stem from peer pressure.
- Encourage healthy activities and hobbies that build confidence and highlight what makes them unique.
The most important message you can give your teen is that their worth is not defined by appearance and that any choice about their body should be thoughtful, informed, and safe.
Do you have more questions about plastic surgery for teens? Dr. Emily Kirby provides compassionate care for patients of all ages. Call or text our Fort Worth plastic surgery office and medical spa at 817-292-4200 to learn how Dr. Kirby and our team can help support you and your teen.
