With the booming popularity of cosmetic surgery, many individuals dissatisfied with their appearance turn to procedures to achieve desired results. However, not everyone is suitable for surgery, especially minors.
Can Minors Undergo Cosmetic Surgery?
While everyone desires to enhance their appearance, individuals under 18 are prohibited from undergoing cosmetic surgical procedures—particularly liposuction for weight loss. This restriction stems from the fact that minors' facial structures are still developing. Their organs, bones, and skin tissues have not fully matured. Premature cosmetic surgery can adversely affect physical development.Additionally, minors are highly image-conscious and self-centered during this stage, often fixating on others' perceptions of them. Minor physical imperfections may be exaggerated, leading them to set unrealistic beauty standards for themselves.Minors are in a critical phase of physical growth and development, with many bodily systems still maturing. Undergoing cosmetic surgery at this stage may yield results significantly different from expectations. Blindly pursuing cosmetic procedures could even lead to developmental issues in the treated areas. Furthermore, minors possess immature mental capacities and often follow fleeting beauty trends. As they age, this can create significant psychological burdens.
What are the risks of cosmetic surgery?
1. Injectable procedures carry high risks
Despite their popularity, injectable treatments pose significant dangers. For instance, Botox injections may temporarily reduce wrinkles but can cause allergic reactions, double vision, headaches, or unnatural facial expressions. Eyelid surgery risks eyelid eversion or arterial compression leading to blindness.
2. Liposuction can cause fat embolism
Though seemingly straightforward, liposuction carries life-threatening risks. When fat is suctioned out, damaged fat particles can enter the bloodstream through damaged small veins, potentially causing organ blockages. This risk is significantly influenced by the area treated. Despite advanced techniques, liposuction remains associated with certain dangers.
3. Compulsive Repeat Procedures
Some individuals with naturally attractive features undergo repeated cosmetic surgeries. They persistently perceive their facial features and body proportions as abnormal, fixating excessively on perceived imperfections. This fixation can trigger psychological stress, leading to anxiety and depression.
4. Over half of V-face surgeries result in facial numbness complications
V-face surgery is extremely popular in South Korea, primarily achieved by adjusting the position of the upper and lower jaws to create a more "perfect" facial contour. This procedure is highly complex and carries multiple complications, including permanent facial numbness and even facial paralysis.
Important Reminder
It is crucial to understand that minors should not undergo cosmetic surgery, as it can cause severe long-term health complications. Individuals under 18 are still in a developmental stage, particularly regarding procedures like liposuction, rhinoplasty, and double eyelid surgery, which should be postponed until after the age of 18.