At What Age Can You Get Plastic Surgery?

We love helping patients improve their appearance and quality of life at nearly any age. But many men and women wonder, what age can you get plastic surgery? How young is too young to transform your appearance, and is there an expiration date on certain cosmetic procedures?

In the U.S., people younger than 18 need parental consent before getting plastic surgery. Legal requirements aside, many plastic surgeons opt to defer treatment based on various factors. Let’s take a closer look at age requirements, health considerations, and other areas I consider when consulting with you about popular plastic surgery procedures:

What’s the Best Age for Facelift?

To determine if you’re a good candidate for a facelift, I assess your age, skin condition, facial anatomy, and overall needs and goals. Younger patients who want to be proactive about addressing the early signs of aging are typically good candidates for nonsurgical options such as BOTOX® Cosmetic or dermal fillers. A mini facelift may be suitable in your 40s, while a traditional or deep plane facelift is usually more beneficial for patients in their 50s and 60s with visibly advanced aging symptoms.

What Age Can You Get a Nose Job?

Rhinoplasty, or a nose job, appeals to patients of all ages who are self-conscious about one of their most prominent facial features—the nose. Teens, in particular, are likely to pursue this procedure. Most plastic surgeons recommend waiting until the nose fully develops before performing rhinoplasty. This usually occurs around age 15 or 16 for girls and 16 or 17 for boys. However, my older patients also make excellent rhinoplasty candidates.

What Age Can You Get Breast Implants?

Your breasts should be fully developed before breast augmentation is performed. Therefore, I recommend waiting until you are at least 18 years old before getting breast implants. Your maturity and ability to emotionally process your cosmetic procedure is also something we take into account. Additionally, silicone implants are only FDA-approved for women aged 22 and older. Patients under 22 years old are restricted to saline implants. Women of childbearing age should also understand that it’s best to wait to have breast augmentation surgery until after you’re done breastfeeding. The good news for older women is that there’s no “expiration date” on getting breast implants as long as you’re in good overall health.

Are there Tummy Tuck Age Limits?

Honestly, any age is the “right” age for a tummy tuck as long as you are in good health, don’t plan on getting pregnant again if you’re a woman, and are committed to maintaining your results. In other words, you’re never too old or young to transform your midsection and boost your self-confidence! Regardless of age, the key to a successful tummy tuck is having a positive mindset and realistic expectations about your results.

Does Plastic Surgery Age Well?

Certain procedures like rhinoplasty and liposuction potentially deliver lifelong results—meaning as you age, your results should persist. However, facelifts, eyelid surgery, and other specific procedures help you look considerably younger for many years but don’t halt aging. In these cases, sun damage, gravity, and the natural aging process eventually take their toll on your skin, and you may need to consider touch-ups or maintenance treatments.

When considering plastic surgery, you should always consult with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with a proven track record of delivering exceptional results to patients of all ages. Remember, it’s never too early or late to pursue your “dream” look. I encourage you to reach out to request a consultation or call our practice at (818) 500-0823 to begin your transformation.