Is 14 Years Old Too Young to Get Nose Surgery?

The answer depends on several factors. In males, I feel that 14 years old is too young for Rhinoplasty and 16 year old is probably a better age to be considering the surgery. In females, a 14 year old girl may be physically mature enough that the surgery would be entirely appropriate. One needs to consider the psychological component of cosmetic surgery. The alteration of ones image can be traumatic experience even if the changes are positive ones. The psychological maturity of the patient... more

The problem is not your age, but but the fact of whether the facial area has fully developed at 14. In a theoretical plane this occurs only in less than 25% of female patients, and usually in less than 10% of male patients. But in my opinion, the clue is not if antrophometric develoment has been completed or not. When considering a rhinoplasty, it's crucial to have a psichological complete maturity to choose the correct decission. Wait almost two or three years before deciding... more

The nose, specifically the septum (the wall that separates the two sides of the nose) serves as the focal point or center for midfacial growth. Prematurely disturbing this growth center could lead to abnormal development of the face. Therefore, it is essential that a qualified surgeon evaluate your facial growth and assure that it is an appropriate time to consider a rhinoplasty. Most teenage girls can have rhinoplasty approximately one year after their menarche (first menstrual period).... more

By the mid teens, nose size/growth is near adult size, so from a technical standpoint a rhinoplasty can be done. From a psychological standpoint, teens should be choosing to do this for the right reason. While there are many right reasons, it is important that to a teen be self motivated and not be motivated by a family member to have it done. Also, they should be able to identify specifically what they don't like about their nose and share this with their Plastic Surgeon. It is so... more