Breast implant ban for minors moves ahead
Measure first of its kind in Europe
19 February, 17:34
(ANSA) - Rome, February 19 - The Italian government on Monday
sent a bill to parliament banning cosmetic breast surgery for
under-18s in a bid to stem their rising popularity among Italian
girls.The first measure of its kind in Europe, the bill would put a stop to all breast surgery for minors that has no medical basis.
At present, girls under 18 can have their breasts enlarged, reduced or lifted provided they have their parents' consent.
Health Undersecretary Francesca Martini, who drafted the bill, said that demand for such operations was increasing among girls bombarded by images in the media that made them feel inadequate.
According to a study by the SWG research agency, around 36% of Italian girls under 18 are unhappy with the way they look, while 17% were specifically concerned about their breasts.
Some 14% of teenagers between 16 and 17 said they would consider plastic surgery, the study said.
In addition to barring minors, the bill would also set up a state register of all adult patients who have undergone breast implants or reduction, in order to track defects and malpractice back to their source.
The measure would also provide privacy guarantees for women who opt for cosmetic surgery with stiff penalties for anyone who divulges that information.
According to SWG, over 40% of Italian women over 35 entertain the idea of having their breasts augmented. The survey however reported that women unhappy with their bodies are more concerned with perceived defects of the stomach and thighs (71%) or the legs (29%) than their breasts (18%). But 39% said an abundant chest increases self esteem.
