Advocacy Topic

Advocacy Paper Topic

Primary Argument:

Young adults and teenagers can benefit from rhinoplasty or nasal reconstruction surgery

for both psychological and physical reasons. According to the American Society of Plastic

Surgeons, teens who have undergone rhinoplasty may find it easier to breathe, feel less self-

conscious about their appearance, and have higher self-esteem (Clark & Shacknai). Additionally,

rhinoplasties can be considered a type of health care as they can enhance a person's quality of life

and mental well-being.

Reference:

Clark, Kaitlin, and Gabby Shacknai. “Rhinoplasty.” American Society of Plastic Surgeons,

American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 2020, https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-

procedures/rhinoplasty.

Counter Argument:

Teenagers and young adults might not fully comprehend the possible effects of

undergoing a rhinoplasty. Sometimes, cosmetic procedures and plastic surgery can have physical

and psychological side effects that might not present themselves immediately. Furthermore,

young people's bodies are still changing and developing, so it might be premature to use surgery

to change how they seem. "Adolescents are not fully developed cognitively, emotionally, or

physically, and these factors should be considered when evaluating the safety and

appropriateness of elective cosmetic procedures for this population.," states a study that was

published in the Journal of Adolescent Health (Wu et al.).

Reference:

Wu, S. S., Dusza, S. W., & Alster, T. S. (2013). “Elective cosmetic surgery in adolescents:

Ethical Considerations.” Journal of Adolescent Health, 52(3), S33-S38.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2012.09.004