One of the most common plastic surgeries performed each year is rhinoplasty. You may consider rhinoplasty for a variety of reasons, but some of the most common ones are to reshape or restructure what may be perceived as a large nose or to help patients breathe better. However, the procedure is becoming more and more common with teenagers who desire to enhance their appearance. 

Teenagers often have different motivations than adults in deciding to undergo cosmetic surgery. They may wish to alter physical characteristics believed to be flawed or awkward. While experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons can provide substantial change in the look of a patient’s nose through rhinoplasty, it is important to remember a few facts about the procedure, especially when dealing with young adults who are interested in receiving this procedure

Teenage Rhinoplasty Can Help

For teenagers who are unsatisfied with the shape of their nose and would like to get it restructured, undergoing a rhinoplasty can drastically alter their appearance. “Before and after” photos provide visual proof of the procedure’s effectiveness. It can boost confidence and help teenagers feel less self-conscious and more empowered. Rhinoplasty can help provide “harmony and balance” in the face with patients who no longer wish to worry about perceived “distraction” caused by an awkwardly shaped nose.

Teenagers and their parents should schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss expectations and to get a feel for the procedure itself, including how the procedure is performed, recovery time and preparation. Each patient’s features will differ and it is important to take each person’s unique physical characteristics into account with surgical planning.

For teenagers that have other nasal issues that affect more than their physical appearance, such as a deviated septum or collapsed nose, many will find that rhinoplasty will straighten the nose and make it easier to breathe. Because rhinoplasty involves simply altering what is already there, instead of adding artificial components such as implants, rhinoplasty is considered one of the safest cosmetic procedures to undergo with general anesthesia.

Things to Consider About Teenage Rhinoplasty

It is important that teenagers and their parents consider potential drawbacks and risks when considering rhinoplasty. Any surgery has risks; use of anesthesia can sometimes cause serious complications so a complete medical history should be discussed with your board-certified plastic surgeon. Complications such as bleeding and infection are possible with any type of surgery, and these should also be discussed with your plastic surgeon. Although imaging technology can provide a detailed visual example of what the newly sculpted nose will look like, there is always the possibility that once the procedure is completed and the patient has healed, the patient may not be satisfied with the final result.

In addition, teens who are still growing should carefully consider whether it is the right time to undergo a rhinoplasty, as their bodies – including their nose – will continue to change with age. It is suggested that for most teenage patients, it is best to allow the face to completely develop prior to performing an operation such as rhinoplasty. A general rule of thumb for girls to be considered a possible surgical candidate is that they should be at least 15 years of age or older; for boys, 17 years of age or older is appropriate. Keep in mind that each individual will be different, and your Houston plastic surgeon should perform an individual consultation to find a solution that is tailored to fit each patient’s specific needs.

For families that are considering teenage rhinoplasty, it is suggested to do prior research, ask plenty of questions, and voice all of your concerns during your pre-surgery consultation. Review testimonials of former patients and look at a board-certified plastic surgeon’s “before and after” pictures to help you choose the best board-certified plastic surgeon. Most importantly, empower your teenager and discuss thoughts with them about any cosmetic procedure they are considering.

If you are ready to begin the next phase, contact our Houston office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Patt. He specializes in procedures only of the face and has helped sculpt some of Houston’s most beautiful noses!

Learn More About Rhinoplasty Here

 

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