Teenage Rhinoplasty

Should a Teenager Get a Nose Job?

patient before and after teenage rhinoplasty

SHOULD A TEENAGER GET A NOSE JOB?

Teenagers experience significant social pressure from their peers. Everything from their tastes to their appearance can be called into question, and all of this can play a major role in their self-confidence, their self-esteem, and how they respond to social influences. For teenagers who desire surgical correction and are emotionally ready, rhinoplasty can improve the appearance and proportional balance of the nose to help them develop healthy self-confidence at this sensitive time in life.

WHEN IS TEENAGE RHINOPLASTY APPROPRIATE?

Teenage rhinoplasty can be appropriate for teens whose noses are a source of embarrassment or teasing. Having a nose that is large, misshapen, crooked, drooping, wide, asymmetrical, or otherwise unattractive in appearance can lead to emotional distress or even severe anxiety during adolescence. However, rhinoplasty is not for everyone. Teenage rhinoplasty is only appropriate for teens who are emotionally mature and who have been able to carefully consider their motivations as well as the consequences and potential risks of undergoing this procedure.

WHEN IS MY TEEN READY FOR RHINOPLASTY?

Teenagers may be ready for rhinoplasty if they are mature enough to make the decision for themselves. While parents may wish to save their children from emotional scarring, they should not pressure their teens into undergoing plastic surgery. They should counsel with their children, but the decision must ultimately be personal. Additionally, girls should be at least 15 and boys should be at least 16 to ensure that the nose and facial features have finished growing. If he or she does not have reasonable motivation, emotional maturity, or the necessary physical growth, your teen should wait for now and consider rhinoplasty in the future.

HOW WILL RHINOPLASTY AFFECT MY TEEN?

The initial recovery period after rhinoplasty can significantly affect your teen. Nose surgery requires a 10 to 14-day healing period, which may require some absence from school. Teenage rhinoplasty patients also have to avoid physical education classes and sports for two full months. It may be wise to consider waiting until summer break to schedule your teenager’s rhinoplasty procedure so that he or she has adequate time to heal.
In terms of results, rhinoplasty can improve both the form and function of the nose. For teens with impaired nasal breathing, rhinoplasty can incorporate septoplasty techniques to help your teen breathe more easily and comfortably. From an aesthetic perspective, rhinoplasty can greatly improve the appearance of the nose while maintaining a youthful and proportionate facial balance. Nonetheless, it won’t suddenly and dramatically change everything. Rhinoplasty can’t make a teen more popular or guarantee getting a boyfriend or girlfriend. However, teenage rhinoplasty can help teens by enhancing their natural beauty and fostering confidence as well as a healthy self-image and self-esteem. For many teens who choose rhinoplasty, these benefits can help improve their quality of life for years into the future.
Dr. Steven Pearlman is a dual board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in teenage rhinoplasty and other facial procedures. Dr. Pearlman can counsel with you and help you and your teen decide whether to undergo teenage rhinoplasty. Request your personal consultation by calling (212) 223-8300 or by filling out our online contact form today.