Seeing Christmas Through a Child’s Eyes

A very Merry Christmas to everyone!
As we watched our grandchildren eagerly unwrap their Christmas presents, we were transported back in time to our own childhoods. The magic of Christmas through a child’s eyes remains timeless, an enchanting blend of wonder and joy that spans generations.
The twinkling lights that adorned our homes back then are mirrored in the gleam of excitement in the eyes of our grandchildren. The scent of evergreen, the sight of poinsettias, the aromas of special foods being prepared all evoke memories of our own youthful anticipation, as we carefully hung ornaments and counted down the days until Santa’s visit on Christmas Eve.
The familiar strains of carols playing in the background transport us to the days when our own youthful voices joined in the chorus (at church and at home). The thrill of the arrival of Christmas Eve to discover a world transformed by traditional meals, prayers, carols, gifts and love is now mirrored in the delighted gasps and giggles of the new generation.
Some things never change – the warmth of family gatherings, the joy of shared traditions, and the magic that comes with believing in the extraordinary. As our grandchildren unwrapped their presents with wide-eyed wonder, we were reminded that the essence of Christmas lies in the timeless connection between generations, creating a tapestry of love and memories that endure through the years.

Our grandchildren were mesmerized by the tree on Christmas Eve 2023

Dr. Bunkis with his little brother, Imants, and sister, Ināra, in 1958

Plastic surgery for teenagers is a complex and sensitive issue that requires careful consideration. While there are instances where it may be appropriate, it is crucial to prioritize the physical and emotional well-being of the adolescent. Generally, plastic surgery for teenagers should be reserved for cases where it addresses significant physical or psychological issues that cannot be resolved through non-invasive means.

Appropriate plastic surgery procedures for teenagers often involve reconstructive or corrective measures rather than purely aesthetic enhancements. Common examples include cleft lip and palate repair, correction of congenital abnormalities, and reconstruction following traumatic injuries or accidents. In these cases, plastic surgery can significantly improve both the physical function and appearance of the affected area, positively impacting the teenager’s overall quality of life. An example of a purely aesthetic procedure which is appropriate for children older than six and teen agers is ear pinbacks or otoplasties – repairing such a deformity can prevent teasing by playmates and minimize psychological trauma to a youngster.
On the other hand, certain procedures are generally considered inappropriate for teenagers. Aesthetic surgeries such as breast augmentation and liposuction for purely cosmetic reasons are typically discouraged before the individual reaches physical maturity and emotional maturity. Teenagers’ bodies are still developing, and undergoing elective cosmetic procedures may have unpredictable long-term effects.
Ethical plastic surgeons prioritize the psychological well-being of teenagers seeking surgery. They assess whether the teenager has realistic expectations, a stable self-image, and is undergoing the procedure for reasons that extend beyond societal pressures or fleeting trends. Emotional maturity is a crucial factor in determining whether a teenager is ready for plastic surgery, as they need to fully understand the potential risks and benefits, as well as manage post-operative care and recovery responsibly.
In conclusion, plastic surgery for teenagers should be approached cautiously and with a focus on medical necessity rather than purely aesthetic concerns. Open communication between the teenager, their parents, and a qualified plastic surgeon is essential to ensure that the decision is well-informed and considers both the physical and emotional aspects of the adolescent’s well-being.

9-year-old girl with protruding ears, before and after a set-back otoplasty by Dr. Bunkis. This procedure stopped her from being teased about her ears and increased her self confidence.

For CA, please call 949-888-9700 or visit www.orangecountyplasticsurgery.com
Or for MA location, call 508-755-4825 or visit www.salisburyps.com

You can write to
Dr. John Compoginis at Contact Us Form
Dr. Staci Compoginis at Contact Us Form
Dr. Deborah Ekstrom at Contact Us Form
or Dr. Juris Bunkis at Contact Us Form