A rhinoplasty could alter the size, shape, and specific nose characteristics for individuals who are unhappy with its appearance. Since the contours of the nose heavily influence the balance between facial proportions, it is understandable that many teenagers express the desire for cosmetic surgery. Even still, there are many essential considerations to go over before getting a teen rhinoplasty in Washington DC.
Most importantly, a prospective patient’s age and nasal development influence whether rhinoplasty surgery is suitable or if putting off the operation until later is necessary. However, if a patient does qualify for the procedure, it could reshape nose contours, and improve facial symmetry, boosting their self-confidence in the process. Board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Somenek is available to consult with a teenager to determine if they are at an age where nasal surgery makes sense for them.
Benefits of Undergoing Rhinoplasty Surgery as a Teenager
Like routine rhinoplasty surgery for adults, teen rhinoplasty surgery could correct a broad spectrum of cosmetic features of the nose to change its shape, size, and breathing function. For instance, the operation could improve nasal and facial asymmetry, reduce more prominent nostrils, and correct crooked or bumpy bridges. Just as significantly for teenagers, it could improve breathing difficulties, such as a deviated septum that is reducing airflow to the nostrils.
The most prominent benefits of a teenage rhinoplasty procedure in Washington DC might be the emotional benefits. For younger people especially, cosmetic irregularities could result in substantial emotional distress, embarrassment, and lower self-esteem. However, the operation has shown to improve a teenage patients’ confidence, and subsequently, their quality of life. It is important to have a positive view of oneself during this critical development stage in life.
Some patients may need to get a rhinoplasty as a teenager due to congenital disorders and nasal structural issues, correcting nose abnormities to improve breathing. It is important to bring up these limitations during your consultation so Dr. Somenek can plan accordingly.
Limitations for Teenage Rhinoplasty Procedures
Despite the various benefits, you may only qualify for teenage rhinoplasty surgery in Washington DC if your nasal anatomy has fully developed. For girls, the nose finishes growing typically between the ages of 15 and 17, while male nasal anatomy stops development between 17 and 19 years old. However, an individual’s nasal development progression is unique, so it is necessary to undergo an assessment during a consultation to determine candidacy for surgery.
In addition to physical limitations, the surgery has a few emotional considerations for a young person to think about. The surgery should only be done to relieve the cosmetic or functional concerns of the patient rather than succumbing to outside pressure, such as bullying or family members’ preferences. Patients should also understand the recovery timeline and what they will and will not be able to do while they heal.
What Is Teen Rhinoplasty?
Teen rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to reshape or enhance the appearance of a teenager’s nose. Teen rhinoplasty can be performed to correct malalignment after injury. Some of the most common aesthetic concerns a rhinoplasty can correct are bumps, lumps, crookedness, or too wide or narrow nostrils. Since the nose is the focal point of the face, contouring or reshaping it can create a well-balanced appearance.
What Age Can I Get Teen Rhinoplasty?
Every patient is different, so the appropriate age to have rhinoplasty will vary. In general, it’s best to wait until your nasal structures are completely developed, somewhere between 15 to 17 years old. However, it’s always best to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Somenek and Dr. Pittman, who can determine if the time is right to undergo the procedure.
How Long Is the Recovery Period After a Teen Rhinoplasty?
The recovery period after teen rhinoplasty depends on the complexity of the case and how quickly the patient heals overall. Immediately after surgery, there will be swelling and bruising of the face and around the eyes. Patients may also have nasal congestion, which will subside as they continue to heal.
Most patients can resume their regular activities, including going to school, once the bandages are removed and the majority of the swelling and bruising has subsided. Typically, most patients are able to resume their activities one to two weeks after having a rhinoplasty.
What Are the Risks and Possible Complications?
Just like any other surgical procedure, there are risks associated with having rhinoplasty. Although the risk is minimal, some of the most common risks and possible complications include anesthesia complications, infection, bleeding, poor healing, scarring, asymmetry of the nose, or undesired aesthetic result.
How Do I Prepare for Teen Rhinoplasty?
The first step to preparing for teen rhinoplasty is a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Here, you’ll have a chance to ask questions and learn more about the procedure. Dr. Somoneck or Dr. Pittman will examine your nose and surrounding facial structures. Your medical history will also be reviewed at this time. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, be sure to discuss them during your consultation. Once cleared for surgery, you’ll be given pre-operative instructions, which include stopping certain medications and avoiding alcohol and tobacco products.
Am I a Candidate for Teen Rhinoplasty?
The best candidates for a teen rhinoplasty are in good health, have no pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, and have realistic expectations of what rhinoplasty can and cannot do. Since teen rhinoplasties are performed for both cosmetic and functional purposes, it’s important to understand why you want to have one. It’s equally important to understand that you might not be happy with the cosmetic result.
While some rhinoplasties can completely change someone’s appearance for the better, you should only undergo the surgery if it’s something you really want to do.
Contact Us for More Information on Teenage Rhinoplasty in Washington DC
Though undergoing plastic surgery during the teenage years requires some extra considerations, teen rhinoplasty in Washington DC offers several emotional, cosmetic, and medical benefits. Further, the process includes an assessments of a patient’s nasal development, cosmetic concerns, nasal anatomy irregularities, and emotional impacts to determine eligibility for surgery. It is important for individuals to hold off on scheduling a consultation until they are at least 15 years old for girls and 17 years old for boys.
After the procedure, many teenage patients report significant improvements in their self-esteem and confidence, which can in turn affect their social life. If you are of the right age and want long-term cosmetic and medical improvements to your nose, fill out a contact form to set up a private consultation.
