Rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, is among the only cosmetic procedures that can be performed on both teenagers and adults, prompting many NYC patients to inquire about the best timing for the procedure; however, full maturation of the nasal structure is generally more important to candidacy than an individual’s age. Dr. Neal Goldberg further explores rhinoplasty for teens versus rhinoplasty for adults below.
When Can Teenagers Undergo Rhinoplasty?
The nose must be fully developed before undergoing surgery to avoid disrupting natural growth patterns, a possibility that could compromise both function and aesthetics following surgery. On average, full development of the nose typically occurs at different ages for boys and girls, respectively:
- Girls: Approximately 15 – 16 years old
- Boys: Approximately 16 – 17 years old
That said, Westchester plastic surgeon Neal Goldberg, MD, FACS determines candidacy for rhinoplasty on a case-by-case basis after a consultation and an examination of each patient’s concerns. Rhinoplasty can be personalized to address both aesthetic and functional issues, such as difficulty breathing and/or a deviated septum.
Considerations for Teens Interested in Nose Surgery
Whether for aesthetic or functional reasons, younger patients considering rhinoplasty should fully educate themselves on need-to-know information about the benefits, risks, and limitations of nose surgery before committing to a decision. A consultation is the most effective way to gain a well-rounded understanding of the procedure, but in general, factors to account for include:
- Psychological Readiness: Teens must be emotionally mature and have realistic expectations for the final results. It’s essential they are choosing surgery for themselves — not due to peer or parental pressure.
- Parental Consent: For patients under 18, parental approval is required.
- Timing with School/Social Life: Many teens opt for the procedure during summer break to allow time for recovery without interfering with school activities and/or to avoid obvious indications of surgery to their peers.
Depending on each person, there can also be benefits to pursuing surgery sooner rather than later. Rhinopasty can improve self-esteem and enhance confidence during critical developmental years, and the procedure can also be utilized to correct congenital or traumatic nasal deformities early on.
Should I Wait Until Adulthood to Get a Nose Job?
While the potential benefits of postponing the rhinoplasty procedure vary according to each person’s unique needs, undergoing surgery in adulthood rather than adolescence offers the following distinctions:
- Fully Developed Features: There’s no concern about interrupting nose growth.
- Emotional Maturity: Adults often have a clearer understanding of their goals and motivations when compared to younger patients.
- More Stable Lifestyle: Recovery time and long-term care are often easier to manage with a more stable, established routine.
Ultimately, there is no “one-size-fits-all” answer. The right time for rhinoplasty depends on a blend of physical readiness, emotional maturity, and personal motivation. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon or an ENT specialist is often the best way to determine optimal timing.
Ready to learn more? Get answers to frequently asked questions from our NYC plastic surgeon, Dr. Neal Goldberg, and contact our team to book a consultation today.