A recent report from the vitamin and supplement company Thorne reveals that teenagers are already considering plastic surgery procedures for themselves. According to the findings, one in four adolescents aged 13 to 17 expressed intentions to undergo cosmetic surgery to combat signs of aging.
Interestingly, the report highlights that boys are more likely than girls to be influenced by the fear of aging, with 20 percent of boys surveyed indicating plans for cosmetic surgery compared to 17 percent of girls. This statistic surpasses the national average, which stands at just 6 percent.
Experts in psychology suggest that this fixation on aging among teenagers could be attributed to their exposure to ever-changing and often unattainable beauty standards through social media platforms. Colin Watts, CEO of Thorne, notes that the data underscores a growing realization that societal pressures regarding youthfulness extend beyond surface-level appearance.
Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok frequently utilize filters and editing tools to promote unrealistic beauty ideals, contributing to the perpetuation of these standards. Licensed psychologist Lindsay Jernigan explains that the constant exposure to curated images on social media platforms can lead individuals to constantly evaluate themselves, fostering anxiety about aging in a culture that values youthfulness.
Psychotherapist Kimberly Parker adds that the pursuit of an idealized image promoted by social media can drive some individuals, including young men, towards considering plastic surgery as a means to achieve it. Parker suggests that societal shifts, including changing perceptions of masculinity, may contribute to the increasing willingness of young men to undergo such procedures.
However, Parker warns against viewing early adoption of plastic surgery as solely positive, citing potential mental and physical health risks. Rachel Goldberg, a marriage and family therapist, emphasizes that undergoing plastic surgery at a young age may hinder individuals from experiencing their natural aging process, potentially leading to excessive reliance on cosmetic procedures in the future.
In conclusion, while societal changes and evolving beauty standards may influence teenagers’ attitudes towards plastic surgery, experts caution against premature interventions and emphasize the importance of considering the long-term implications on mental and physical well-being.
