Cosmetic surgery for children with Down's syndrome
Press release December 1998
Down's Syndrome Scotland recognises the dilemma faced by parents of a child with Down's syndrome Define Down's syndrome - of course they do not want their child to face prejudice as they grow up.
However, most parents are not prepared to put their child through a general anaesthetic Define Anaesthetic and the pain of surgery simply for cosmetic reasons.
As an association we would not criticise parents who decide to follow this course of action but urge them to wait until their son or daughter is old enough to take an in informed decision for themselves. If they are happy with the way they look, then don't ask them to change. If they are not happy, then give them the respect that you would give to any other teenager or young adult and let them make an informed decision.
If society does not like the way a person with Down's syndrome looks, then the problem is with society - not the individual with Down's syndrome. It is up to all of us to challenge ignorance and prejudice and to make sure that children, young people and adults are included and involved in their own communities and in society generally. In this way each may reach their full potential, and focus will be on skill and ability, rather than appearance and disability.