While we're on the topic of pediatricians...

[becca_commutes]

I've been dying to ask this question ever since I joined the booj

Comments

[sblmnldrknss]

I think I'd continue to insist. I'm guessing, though I totally don't know for sure, that these surgeries are more likely to be successful on a younger patient. Wanting to have fun in the summer is not a major thing to me.

[thexphial]

I wouldn't force a 16 or 17 year old, but I would have a really long talk with them about what not having the surgery could mean. I'd want them to make the most informed decision they can and that may mean facing some hard truths about how much it could affect their life later. I would certainly not insist on it happening at any specific time if that was the issue. If we needed to do home-based study so my kid could have a fun summer for the first half or so, I would be okay with that, assuming my child is motivated and intelligent.

[amazonvera]

At 16-17, they've had enough experience looking like this in an unkind world to make an informed decision. After one more good "You know what the consequences of this are, right?" conversation, I'd let it go. I wouldn't force them, whatever their reasons.

[stateofwhat]

D: Poor baby.

A) Tell them their friends can come over and play, the surgeries will not prevent that.
B) I would tell them that they will be hopped up, so not to worry.
C) This one sounds like a teenager, so I would mostly let it go.

Their age would play a huge role in whether or not their opinion really counts. I think 13-14 and up I would leave it up to them to decide, but I would still adivse them to get the surgeries.

[sarahness]

I think most 9-10 year olds have the foresight to see whether the risks of the surgeries are worth the benefit of looking "better"/repairing minor functionalities. Until that point, I'd do my best to make well-educated decisions regarding their treatment plan and do as I see fit.