In mid-February, Italy’s Cabinet took the first step towards limiting cosmetic surgery to minors. Legislation was approved to ban anyone under 18 years old from undergoing breast augmentation surgery for cosmetic purposes. The Health Ministry initiated the ban, which is supported by many, including the Italian Society of Plastic Surgeons.
In Ontario, breast augmentation can technically be performed on anyone at any age, however anyone under the age of 19 is considered a minor and requires parental or guardian consent. Reputable cosmetic and plastic surgeons often will only perform the procedure on individuals who are physically and mentally healthy, and have a mature mindset. Prospective patients should have realistic expectations and make the choice to have breast augmentation of their own accord. It is also recommended that the breasts reach full development before surgery, since results may be affected by further growth.
The ban in Italy was placed to protect minors, many of whom are believed to be unaware of the health implications and risks breast augmentation surgery poses. Minors undergo surgery for the sake of vanity, with no or little knowledge of how it can affect their health. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons highly recommends minors wait until the age of consent, however there is no enforcement and the procedure remains a popular one with females under 18.