Israeli Teens See 56% Surge in Plastic Surgery Requests During Summer Break

In recent years, there has been a notable increase worldwide in plastic surgeries among minors under 18, driven by cultural influences, peer pressure, and sometimes medical needs. Israel reflects this trend, with the Israeli Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons reporting a dramatic 56% rise in demand for plastic surgeries during the summer vacation, particularly nose, ear, and breast procedures performed under local or general anesthesia.

The main reason teens opt for surgery during summer is to recover away from school peers’ scrutiny, allowing them to return in September with renewed confidence and a new appearance. Dr. Meir Cohen, chair of the society, emphasized that surgeries are only performed with parental consent and after ensuring realistic expectations. He advised families to discuss the decision in front of a regular mirror rather than selfies, which can distort facial features.

Dr. Cohen also noted the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in consultations, with teens arriving informed by AI-generated before-and-after images and risk explanations. Despite concerns, he views AI as beneficial, providing balanced information and helping patients make informed decisions. Social media also plays a dual role by sharing both successful outcomes and complications, increasing awareness.

Age alone does not determine surgery eligibility; emotional readiness and understanding of risks are crucial. Dr. Cohen often advises postponing surgeries, especially rhinoplasty, until after military service, as adolescence is an unstable period. He highlighted that regret is rare when surgeries are appropriately matched to patient needs but warned against overly aggressive procedures, particularly breast augmentations in young girls, which carry long-term implications.

Recommended minimum ages vary by procedure: rhinoplasty is advised after age 17 to allow nasal development; ear pinning can be done as early as age six if social distress exists; male breast reduction is suggested from age 16; and female breast augmentation is recommended only after age 18, preferably 21, to avoid disrupting natural growth. The society stresses careful evaluation to prevent premature surgeries that might require future corrections.