Taiwan bans cosmetic surgery for under-18s
Print Edition
Taiwan yesterday banned “medically unnecessary” plastic surgery for those under 18 years of age in an attempt to protect beauty-obsessed youngsters who overlook the health risks of such procedures, officials said.
The government ban is effective immediately, and doctors can no longer perform operations such as nose jobs and breast enhancement on minors.
Liposuction and so-called “double-eyelid” surgery, which makes the eyes look bigger, are also prohibited, the island’s health authorities said.
Doctors face a fine of up to NT$500,000 (US$16,600) and a year’s suspension if found violating the new rule, it said. They could even lose their licences completely.
Before the ban yesterday, under-18s were allowed plastic surgery if they had the approval of their parents or legal guardians. However, health officials say that some lied about their ages to get treatment.
“As the acceptance for cosmetic surgery rises in Taiwan, we are concerned that more youngsters and even parents will overlook the risks and consequences,” an official said. “The ban is necessary as invasive procedures are not good for youngsters who are still growing.”
Some estimates put the number of youngsters going under knife to around 800 a year. The government acted following reports of children as young as nine undergoing surgeries, some unsuccessfully.
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