Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a highly sought-after cosmetic surgery procedure. According to The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, approximately 950,000 rhinoplasty procedures are performed annually across just four countries around the world (America, Mexico, Brazil, and Iran). That is a lot of noses getting shaped and perfected! Of the various trends that occur in plastic surgery, statistics are showing a rise in the number of teenagers having rhinoplasty. This brings up the question of how young may be too young to correct the size and shape of a nose that just doesn’t fit the face.
As a cleft and facial cosmetic surgeon, Dr. James meets with patients of all ages who are interested in reshaping their nose. Our staff is well aware of the emotional turmoil a young patient may suffer due to the appearance of the nose. While there is a strong desire to meet the needs of each patient, it is also crucial that skeletal and facial development drive the timing of rhinoplasty.
The sinuses, the jaw, and the nose itself may continue to develop throughout the teen years. This is especially relevant to young men. The timing of rhinoplasty needs to occur when there is no longer a risk of disturbing the growth center of the nose, the septum. Alteration of this wall between the nostrils could ultimately disrupt future development, affecting the entire facial aesthetic.
Here’s the Good News
In most cases, facial development is complete by the age of 16. Girls complete this process sooner than boys, though surgery is always approached with individual maturity in mind. Rhinoplasty may focus on the nose, but the entire face changes appearance as a result of the new size and shape. This can be somewhat challenging for any patient of any age and should be discussed before surgery.
The timing for teens also often revolves around school and sports schedules. Recovery from rhinoplasty is relatively short. A substantial amount of swelling and bruising fades within the first week after surgery, but many patients prefer to undergo their transformation during their summer break from school.
Do you want to know more about rhinoplasty? We’d love to talk with you! Call our New Orleans area office at (504) 378-2030.