There isn't a strict age limit for plastic surgery, but parental consent is generally required for those under 18.
Plastic Surgery Age Considerations
While there is no federal law in the United States dictating a minimum age for cosmetic procedures, practical considerations and ethical guidelines greatly influence when such surgeries are performed.
Minors (Under 18)
- Parental Consent: The key factor for individuals under 18 is parental consent. According to the provided reference, "parental consent is required for patients under the age of 18." This means that a parent or legal guardian must agree to the procedure.
- Maturity and Understanding: Even with parental consent, surgeons will often evaluate the minor's emotional maturity and understanding of the procedure's risks and benefits.
- Appropriateness of the Procedure: The specific procedure requested is carefully considered. Corrective surgeries, such as those addressing birth defects or injuries, are more commonly performed on minors than purely cosmetic procedures.
Adults (18 and Over)
- No Parental Consent Required: Once an individual reaches the age of 18, they are legally considered an adult and can consent to medical procedures without parental permission.
Summary Table
| Age Group | Parental Consent Required? | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Under 18 | Yes | Maturity, appropriateness of procedure. The responsibility falls to parents to help their children make the right decision. |
| 18+ | No | Standard medical evaluation. |
