Is it uncommon for people under the age of 18 having plastic surgery?

Less common: Plastic surgery also includes many reconstructive procedures, not just cosmetic operations. Here in the us, most reputable plastic surgeons will not perform purely cosmetic surgical procedures on minors unless there is a very good reason for it. Procedures to correct prominent ears, rhinoplasty, breast reduction are some common exceptions for the appropriate patient.

Less so: It is uncommon but statistics from the american society of plastic surgeons show that plastic surgery is being increasingly performed in this age group. Of course parents must provide consent for their underage children to have surgery. These decisions should not be taken lightly by patients parents or surgeons.

Under 18: Plastic surgery in patients under the age of 18 is not uncommon. Patients in this age group may have nose jobs (rhinoplasty), chin implants, breast reduction (male and female). It is important for the patient to be mature both physically and emotionally and have the support and consent of his/her parent or legal guardian before having plastic surgery.

It depends: With elective plastic surgery it is important that the patient and/or family are physiclally and emotionally mature enough to undergo the procedure. Age 18 is a good "rule of thumb", but there are exceptions. One example is otoplasty for prominent ears often performed at age 5-6. The ears are nearly fully sized and parents may want them corrected before their child starts school to avoid teasing.