Rhinoplasty: What Is the Right Age to Undergo the Procedure?

Making the decision to have cosmetic surgery is a very serious one. It’s a decision that you can make for a wide range of reasons, from a bump on the bridge of the nose to difficulty breathing. Whatever your reason, you can have a rhinoplasty at any age. Noses can undergo changes as we age. Sports injuries and even pregnancy can change the shape and size of your nose. 

Childhood Rhinoplasty

Any rhinoplasty expert will tell you that people usually become physically mature between the ages of 13 and 17–you know, puberty. At this point, the nose is at its full adult size and can be safely operated on. However, there are instances where younger children will need rhinoplasty. This is typically referred to as functional rhinoplasty. These procedures address birth defects, nasal issues that affect breathing, facial trauma, and realigning broken bones. And even though teenagers can request a nose job, parents need to make sure that they’re prepared for it and thoroughly assess the reasons behind the request. Emotional maturity matters just as much as physical maturity.

The Procedure

Rhinoplasty is a pretty safe procedure, but it is real surgery and does come with real risks and precautions. General anesthesia is administered, patients are asleep and feel no pain during the surgery. You will have either an open surgery, where incisions are made both inside and outside of the nose, or closed surgery, where all of the incisions are made inside the nose. A nose job is usually a fairly quick procedure, but it may take longer if there are other procedures being done simultaneously. Depending on the extent of your surgery, you’re only one to three hours away from a new and improved nose. 

Recovery

Recovery time will vary, but you can generally expect to have the nose of your choosing six to twelve months after surgery. Expect the appearance of your nose to get better over time. Swelling, bleeding, and bruising usually subside within the first two to three weeks. And patients are usually prescribed pain killers to make them more comfortable. Patients will be sent home with a cast on their nose, which is usually removed a week after the surgery. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions for best results. If your teen is the patient, it may be best to schedule the surgery at the start of the summer break so there are less stress and responsibility on your young person. 

Whether you’re asking about the perfect age for getting a rhinoplasty for yourself or for your child, there’s no need to feel ashamed. Many parents are asking because they wish they could have gotten some work done earlier in their lives, and would like to offer the option to their child. Some young adults and teens are asking for themselves to help make a stronger case to present to their parents or guardians. Either way, be sure to research and find a reputable surgeon.