Many teenagers consider getting rhinoplasty if they’re self-conscious about their noses, especially if schoolmates tease them. However, the decision to undergo rhinoplasty as a teen is rarely straightforward. Before I agree to perform a nose job for a teen patient, I thoroughly discuss the pros and cons of getting rhinoplasty at a younger age.
Physical Readiness
When considering the timing of rhinoplasty for teenagers, the primary concern is whether their noses are fully developed. This typically occurs around age 16 for girls and 17 or 18 for boys.
This physical readiness is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome and avoid complications. Here are the key reasons:
- Stability of Results: If the nose is still growing, any changes made during surgery may shift or become distorted as the nose develops. This could affect both the appearance and function of the nose, potentially requiring revision surgery later.
- Facial Harmony: The nose is a central feature of the face, and its proportions must align with the rest of the facial features. A developing nose could lead to imbalances as the face grows, compromising the aesthetic results of the procedure.
- Structural Integrity: Operating on a nose that is not fully developed could interfere with natural growth patterns, potentially weakening the nasal structure or causing functional issues like breathing difficulties over time.
Physical concerns are not the only factors I’m interested in when consulting with teenagers and their parents about cosmetic surgery. Equally important are the teen’s emotional maturity and motivation for wanting to change the shape or size of their nose.
With that in mind, let’s look at pros and cons of rhinoplasty for teenagers:
Pros
Boost in confidence: Even though parents often counsel children that “looks aren’t everything,” teens who are self-conscious about their noses usually have greater overall self-esteem after rhinoplasty surgery.
Quicker healing and recovery: Teenagers tend to bounce back from any physical trauma more quickly than most adults.
Enhanced facial harmony: An over-sized nose, or one with a distinct hump, can distract from an otherwise attractive appearance.
Greater ability to take time off: Older patients may find it more difficult to take time off work. Teens in high school or college can schedule surgery during the summer.
Improved breathing: A cosmetic nose job is often combined with techniques that can clear obstructed nasal airways.
Cons
Overly critical of their appearance: Adolescence is a time when boys and girls are often trying to “fit in,” and a unique facial feature can cause distress—even if no one else notices.
Later regret: Comments from friends or classmates, even if it’s friendly teasing, can lead some teens to want to change their looks. As they grow older, they may regret losing that “unique” look of their nose.
Social media pressure: More recently, social media has pressured teenagers (and others) to change their appearance to look “better” in selfies and on social media platforms.
Unmatched expectations: Rhinoplasty can make dramatic changes, but the results might not match the image a patient has in their mind.
If you or your child is considering rhinoplasty, you can contact us at our Boston-area practice using the online form to request a consultation or call us at (781) 740-7840 to schedule an appointment.
Leave a Reply