Aesthetic medicine among young people: a growing trend
The demand for aesthetic treatments among young people is increasing, both in Italy and around the world. This trend is due to several factors, including the growing attention paid to social media, which exposes young people to images of idealized beauty, and the increased focus on physical and mental well-being.
According to official estimates released by Sicpre (Italian Society of Reconstructive-Regenerative and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery), aesthetic medicine and surgery treatments have increased by at least 20% in the last year (+67% compared to 2019 and +130% compared to 2020).
A study conducted in 2018 [1] states that as many as 73% of Italian adolescents declared that they had used aesthetic treatments to correct the most common defects, such as acne , stretch marks and scars . But requests for treatments to improve the appearance of the face, such as lip fillers and rhinofillers , are also increasing .
Ethical concerns
In an era where personal image is fundamental and has assumed a central role in daily life, leading young people to seek solutions to improve it, this increased demand for aesthetic treatments among adolescents raises certain ethical concerns, requiring aesthetic medicine professionals to make a careful and informed assessment.
Psychological and emotional assessment
The psychological well-being of young people is key. Patients' emotional and psychological state, as well as their motivations.
An effective tool for this purpose is the DAS-59 (Derriford Appearance Scale)[2], which evaluates psychological difficulties and discomfort related to appearance, which consists of subjecting the patient to adequate counseling, divided into several sessions and involving, in some specific cases, also the family members. This multidisciplinary approach is necessary considering the complex issues related to the risk-benefit assessment and the decision-making process of young patients.
The importance of ethics
From an ethical standpoint, aesthetic procedures should not be excessively invasive and distorting. Aesthetic medicine treatments should aim to improve patients' livesby reducing discomfort related to their appearance and improving their psychological balance, promoting social, emotional, and professional integration.
Psychological and psychopathological aspects
Reflecting on physical and mental well-being is of primary importance, especially in an era where appearance is often emphasized on social media. psychological disorders are increasingly common among young people, significantly impacting their self-esteem and well-being. Therefore, assessing apatient's suitability for aesthetic treatments is essential to ensure their peaceful social interaction.
Conclusions
In conclusion, while the relationship between young people and aesthetic medicine is changing significantly, it is essential that aesthetic medicine professionals approach it in a multidisciplinary manner, carefully evaluating patients' motivations and focusing on improving their psychophysical well-being, rather than pursuing unrealistic beauty ideals.