Body Modification

Body modifications may be done for cosmetic or reconstructive reasons. People who have cosmetic procedures typically are unhappy with the size, shape, color or texture of some body part and choose to have it changed in some way. Others may need procedures to reconstruct injured or damaged body parts or areas.

Most teens feel dissatisfied with some part of their body. If you're not happy with your appearance, try getting physically fit, practicing good grooming and hygiene or changing your hair or clothing style.

Remember that you're still growing during your teenage years and may feel more comfortable with your appearance as you get older. Also recognize that people tend to be more critical of their own bodies — what looks "bad" to you is probably unnoticeable to others.

If you're still considering a cosmetic procedure, consult with your parents and your doctor, and speak with other people who have had that particular procedure. Gather information so you can make an educated decision.

The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery recommends that you consider these questions

• Why do you want to change your appearance?
• What feature do you want to change?
• What are your expectations for the results?

Cosmetic surgery and related procedures can be costly and painful, and results are permanent. Some procedures can't be done until the person reaches a certain level of growth or even stopped growing. Some doctors won't perform certain procedures until a person reaches a certain age.

Everyone's situation is unique, and only you can decide what's best for you and your life.

Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery alters or reshapes some normal part of the body in order to improve a person's appearance or self-esteem. It's considered "elective" surgery (not medically necessary), and most insurance plans don't cover it, meaning patients must pay for the surgery themselves. As with any type of surgery, cosmetic surgery carries risks to your health and life.

Virtually every part of the body can be altered in some way. Some of the most common cosmetic surgeries are:

• Liposuction, a way of removing fat from the body by suction.
• Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping, or nose job).
• Breast reshaping and reconstructions, including breast enlargements or reductions.
• Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck).
• Otoplasty (ear surgery).

Cosmetic Procedures

Cosmetic procedures also alter the appearance of the body, but do not involve surgery.

• Dermabrasion is a skin resurfacing technique that uses a wire brush to remove the upper layers of the skin. It's most often used to remove acne scars and some wrinkles. Risks include scarring, skin redness and increased sun sensitivity.
• Laser resurfacing uses a laser beam to remove the upper layers of the skin. It's used to remove acne scars and tattoos. Risks include swelling, crusting, infection, skin redness and possible pigment changes.
• Permanent makeup is actually tattooing. The tattoo is applied in an area where a person would usually apply makeup. For example, eyeliner can be permanently tattooed on the eyelid. Risks involve infection and possible allergic reactions to dyes.
• Chemical peels remove some of the surface layers of the skin, allowing new skin to grow. They are used to remove skin discolorations, small scars and growths. Risks include scarring, allergic reaction, swelling and color changes in the skin.
• Botox injections reduce the appearance of wrinkles. The effect lasts a few months. Botox is made from botulinim toxin, which is produced by a bacterium. Risks include nausea, headaches, flu-like symptoms and drooping eyelids.

Going to Extremes

Some people undergo more extreme body modifications such as tongue splitting, skin braiding, earlobe stretching and implantation of materials to look like horns.

These procedures are not done by doctors but rather by "body artists" who may be licensed to perform tattoos and piercings. These procedures are not regulated and, in some states, are illegal.

The risks associated with these procedures are significant:

• You may get an infection from nonsterilized equipment.
• Your body may react badly to foreign substances.
• Your modified body parts may no longer function correctly
• You may experience negative social effects (for example, when applying for a job) now and in the future.

Last Reviewed: October 2018