We live in an age where body image commentary is all around us, and this can have a serious impact on young children.
Now, a little boy has made headlines around the world after going under the knife to change an aspect of his appearance that has caused him to be bullied for years – his ears.
Six-year-old Gage Berger recently underwent surgery to have his ears pinned back, because he grew tired of being teased over looking like ‘an elf’.
Speaking to local media after his procedure, Gage said: “I just don’t want to be made fun of.”
Needless to say, Gage’s decision has split opinion around the world, and some people have questioned his parents for agreeing to let him get the surgery; however, they admit that the bullying was a major worry for them.
“He just gets really down on himself and he thinks, ‘I’m not good enough,’” said mum Kallie.
After undergoing the surgery, Kallie admits that Gage is now “much more confident” and “back to his old self again”.
@Yahoo @YahooParenting what ever makes you feel good about yourself, doesn't matter what others say even those who disagree
— Dana Carlson Boyack (@DancinGrandma) October 2, 2015
@Yahoo @YahooParenting Lol this is so stupid So let the bullies win huh?
— Melvin (@melvin2898) October 2, 2015
Many have expressed their sadness over Gage’s story, with one Twitter user capturing the general feeling in a tweet which read: “I used to work [with] surgeons who did this. It disgusted me. Kids should not have to undergo the knife to love themselves.”
What are your thoughts?