Plastic surgery in young people
There are plastic surgery operations that are appropriate for patients at any age of life, be it young or old. In fact, certain procedures are indicated or best done if the patient is younger rather than older. Some of these help avoid emotional scars from teasing by classmates and friends at an early age. An example of this is the ear tuck (otoplasty).
A child with prominent ears usually is very aware that the ears are unusual. A parent can be sure that by the time the child mentions it they have already felt some of the criticism just mentioned. It is currently normal to perform the ear tuck operation before a child starts full-time in school, but is old enough to cooperate in the recovery period.
Another example would be a rhinoplasty (nose). Many teenagers have their nose operation after they have finished their growth. This then allows them to finish high school and enter college feeling very good about themselves and confident in their appearance.
Just as a person would not let his/her vision go uncorrected, or their dental work untreated, there are certain operations in plastic surgery that are best done for the young person. However, there are other procedures that are really best delayed until an older age unless circumstances are just right. These differences can best be explained by a consultation visit and a discussion with the surgeon.