Rhinoplasty enables an individual to improve the appearance of the nose and ensure the nose fits in harmony with the contours of the face. Rhinoplasty has become increasingly popular over the years, which is reflected in recent data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
According to ASPS, 217,000 nose reshaping procedures were completed in 2014. Meanwhile, nose reshaping ranked second among all cosmetic surgical procedures performed in 2014, only behind breast augmentation (286,000).
Furthermore, the number of teens who are receiving cosmetic treatments is on the rise.
ASPS reported individuals between the ages of 13 and 19 years old accounted for 224,000 total cosmetic procedures in 2014, up 2 percent year over year. It is predicted that this figure will continue to increase in the foreseeable future.
Should Teens Consider Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a complex procedure, and there are many factors for teens to consider before they receive this surgical treatment.
First, a teen who is dealing with a “large” or “bumpy” nose may struggle with self-confidence issues. In this scenario, he or she may consider rhinoplasty as a “quick-fix” solution.
But it is important to note that rhinoplasty is a life-changing procedure, and the decision to undergo rhinoplasty should not be taken lightly.
Communication between a teen and his or her parents is paramount. A teen should be able to express his or her thoughts and feelings about rhinoplasty, and this individual’s parents can respond accordingly.
Next, if a teen and his or her parents are considering rhinoplasty, they can meet with a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. This will enable all parties involved to find out whether the teen is a good candidate for rhinoplasty.
Dr. Babak Azizzadeh is a Harvard-trained facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has performed many teenage rhinoplasty procedures. During a teen rhinoplasty consultation, Dr. Azizzadeh will analyze a patient and the underlying structures in his or her face and nose. He also will learn about the patient and why he or she is considering rhinoplasty.
An initial consultation provides a teen and his or her parents with the opportunity to ask questions as well. The meeting ensures a teen is fully prepared for rhinoplasty and can establish realistic expectations about what to expect during and after treatment.
Rhinoplasty should not be performed just because a teen or his or her parents want it. Instead, a patient must make an informed decision, and a consultation can help this individual do just that.
Lastly, if a teen and his or her parents choose rhinoplasty, it is vital to prepare for treatment.
A rhinoplasty procedure should not be performed until a teen has stopped growing. This takes place after puberty, which is around 16 to 17 years old for girls and 17 to 18 years old for boys.
Summer usually represents the best time for teenage rhinoplasty. In fact, many teens choose rhinoplasty after they graduate high school and before they kick off the college semester.
When it comes to teen rhinoplasty, it is critical for a teen and his or her parents to consider all of their options. By doing so, a patient can make the right choice based on his or her individual needs. And if rhinoplasty is selected, a teen can reap the benefits of a safe, effective treatment for years to come.