Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital has highlighted the decision to have cosmetic surgery must be based on a thorough investigation of an individual’s circumstances rather than generalising patients by age group.
The Lansdowne Road based not-for-profit private hospital made the statement following a recent public announcement from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) highlighting cosmetic surgery may be inappropriate for younger patients who ‘can be vulnerable and often have self-esteem issues’ and warning ‘procedures can’t always help people overcome problems with their body image.’
Mr. Ian Whitworth, Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon at Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital said: “The statement by BAAPS, of which I am a proud member, is of course completely true, but not just for young people. Anyone investigating whether to have cosmetic surgery must examine thoroughly with their surgeon what their motivation is for having surgery and whether having surgery is right for them. It isn’t recommended for anyone, including older people, to try solving an internal problem with external surgery.”
He explained: “At the same time, there are those of a younger age suffering with genuine afflictions that aren’t going to go away on their own and which can be treated with the right surgery and right psychological support. In these cases, cosmetic surgery can be appropriate for young people and allow them to enjoy their earlier years free from bullying and embarrassment.”
Mr Whitworth added: “Rather than generalising patients’ suitability for surgery according to age, the important thing for surgeons to consider before performing surgery on those of any age is that the individual meets the specific criteria rendering them safe and appropriate patients. The decision as to whether a young person is suitable for surgery should be thoroughly examined by their prospective surgeon, the young patient and their legal guardians, which in most cases will be their parents.”
The Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital has specialised in providing safe, appropriate cosmetic surgery more than fifty years.
Mr. Ian Whitworth is an experienced Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon and is a member of both BAPRAS (British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons) and BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons).
Those interested in finding out more about cosmetic surgery at Nuffield Health Bournemouth hospital are asked to call the Customer Service Department on 01202 702830 for a confidential, no obligation chat.