What is the Best Age for Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a popular cosmetic procedure that has both cosmetic and medical benefits. If you are a teenager or a member of the elderly population, you might be wondering if you can have rhinoplasty surgery.

What is Rhinoplasty? 

Rhinoplasty or nose surgery is a plastic surgery procedure that can improve the nose’s size, shape, and function. People often choose rhinoplasty because their nose is too large or too small for their face, they have a nasal hump, a downturned tip, or other imperfections in the shape and look of the nose. The nose is a central part of the face, and an unaesthetically pleasing look can alter a person’s entire appearance.

Rhinoplasty also has medical benefits and can treat conditions like a deviated septum that cause breathing difficulties. The septum is the strip of bone and cartilage on the inside of the nose between the nostrils. Some people are born with a deviated septum that curves to one side or they develop a deviation after a facial injury. Rhinoplasty can straighten the septum to open up the airways and improve the appearance of your nose. 

At What Age Can I Receive Rhinoplasty?

There is no “right” age to receive rhinoplasty. The average patient is anywhere from 18-40 years old. Almost anyone who feels bothered by the appearance of their nose or has breathing difficulties because of nasal obstruction can benefit from nose surgery. More significant factors impacting your candidacy are underlying health conditions and your current health. This will be discussed at your consultation to ensure that rhinoplasty is your right decision.

Rhinoplasty and Teenagers

Teenagers can receive rhinoplasty, but it is recommended to wait until around 15 or 16 since this is when the nose is fully formed and stops growing. Rhinoplasty can be a life-changing procedure for teenagers with low self-esteem because of their appearance or those who are bullied because of their noses. Teenagers may also desire nose surgery if they have sustained a sports injury or other type of facial trauma.

 

Rhinoplasty and Mature Adults

It is quite common for adults over the age of 50 to pursue their first rhinoplasty surgery. This is often the case for those who have toyed with the idea of having rhinoplasty when they were younger, but it wasn’t severe enough to actually go through with it. As a person ages, the face shows signs of aging, specifically with loss of facial tissue, which causes the nose to stand out even more. During the consultation, we  often hear patients say that they think their nose is growing. But, in fact, they are losing volume in their face, which causes the nose to look larger. 

What to Expect After Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty does require some downtime. Swelling and nasal congestion is common and some patients experience bruising around the lower eyes. A splint is typically worn on the nose for two weeks. Teens who play sports will need to take a break for 3 months to ensure proper healing. 

Schedule a Consultation

Dr. Cruise is a board-certified plastic surgeon dedicated to personalized care with results that match each of his patient’s unique cosmetic goals. To learn more about rhinoplasty and whether you are a candidate, schedule a consultation today at our office in Newport Beach, CA.