Potential Magazine winter 2012 | Page 15

SEE THE NUMBERS most common teen procedures 50% did you nose reshaping know? rhinoplasty 17% gynecomastia 15% 11% otoplasty 4% 2% 1% male breast reduction acne and scar treatments ear pinning breast augmentations breast reductions liposuction Statistical Sources: American Association of Plastic Surgery American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery are teased for being overweight. Everyone has a feature that they don’t care for, but surgery is never the first option.” He suggested that before you give a flat “no,” consider a consultation with a plastic surgeon. “We can assess and advise nonsurgical options, test if there is an underlying cause like a hormonal imbalance and recommend counseling if there is a psychological disorder, such as body dysmorphic disorder,” he said. Most plastic surgeons, including Dr. Bentley, follow strict age requirements when it comes to breast augmentation. “We typically will not do breast augmentations in patients under the age of 18, unless there is a birth defect, such as breast asymmetry” he said. However, Dr. Bentley and others routinely help many teens with rhinoplasty, otoplasty, breast reductions and gynecomastia. “In the case of breast reductions, many of these children refrain from physical exercise like cheerleading and suffer from neck, back and shoulder pain,” he said. “Young men may have additional breast tissue that embarrasses them in gym class and keeps them from swimming or even going to the beach. In these cases, the techniques have improved and have resulted in minimal incisions and shorter recovery times. It makes a real difference in their lives.” Along with rhinoplasty for a deviated septum, these conditions are usually covered by most insurance plans. “But as with any surgery, there is always risk, so again, this should not be the first option,” Dr. Bentley said. Talk to your teens, understand their concerns and consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Michael Bentley is with Plastic Surgery Associates of Montgomery, the largest aesthetic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery practice in central Alabama. •Teens receive about 2 percent of all plastic surgery procedures. •More than 219,000 plastic surgery procedures were performed on teens age 13-19 in 2010. •Silicone implants are not approved for women younger than 22 years of age. Relax. Refresh. Rediscover. It’s a NEW year... Take time for YOU Now until Jan 1, purchase a $100 gift card and receive a $25 gift card 30 minute facial + 30 minute massage Only $75 free. Free Micro-Dermabrasion with purchase of L’Esprit Signature Facial. $140 value for only $80! 334.260.0355 • www.lesprit.net 8161 B Seaton Place, Montgomery, Al 36116 www.potentialmagazine.com 15