8yr old son was diagnosed as having a buried penis for which cosmetic surgery was suggested.is it safe?

Yes.: The safety of general anesthesia in children with still developing brains is the subject of a great deal of research over the last several years. There is no strong evidence of any significant or permanent injury in children with modern anesthetics. By age 8, children will be out of the period of most rapid brain development, when they would (theoretically) be most at risk.

See specialist: If you seek an md who is familiar with the procedures available & anatomy , the risks should be low but this will depend on the extent of the condition & amount of available skin (which may be limited by a prior circumcision). See reference below by dr gary alter, a specialist in this field: http://blogs.Webmd.Com/cosmetic-surgery/2011/06/a-subject-rarely-discussed-hidden-or-buried-penis.Html.

Weightloss,older age: If the child is overweight then weightloss, improved diet and exercise are the first steps to be taken. This not only helps the overall situation but will also allow his reconstructive surgeon to have easier access to release the ligaments at the base of the penis and do it through a much smaller incision. The timing of surgery is more likely to be after pubertal growth has occurred.

Not cosmetic: Your 8 year old is not concerned with his penis. If function is the issue, this is not cosmetic and insurance would cover appropriate reconstructive surgery. Seek consultation with a board certified pediatric urologist. Avoid "elective" surgery in a non consenting minor to deal with your concerns about size or appearance. I'm concerned by the doctor who rec's cosmetic penis surgery in 8 yr old.