Is Late 40s Too Late for Rhinoplasty? Doctor Answers, Tips
Rhinoplasty: Q&A
Ask a Question

Is Late 40s Too Late for Rhinoplasty?

I don't have a straight profile and I'd like to finally take care of it. My nose is elegant from the front - thin nostrils and it's probably just the right length for my face. Can one remove the 'bump' but keep the rest of the nose - & is it okay at this age to do so? Thanks.

34 Doctor Answers | Asked by Grace8 in San Francisco, CA
+2

Late 40s is not too late for Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty can be done at any age.  Removal of a hump can also be done while preserving the other characteristics of the nose as well as maintaining the same contour from the front.  This may require several more steps than you would think, in order to keep the structures in balance.  The only consideration is to be certain a change is what you want.  Patients over the age of 30 do seem to have more dissatisfaction after rhinoplasty if the changes are too drastic. ... more
+2

What is the right age for rhinoplasty?

Dear rhinoplasty patient from San Francisco, Any age after 18 is appropriate for rhinoplasty. If you’re not happy with your nasal profile, find a board certified surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty. Having a good nose job requires a nose specialist and a skilled surgeon. You also want to take into account whether you feel comfortable with the surgeon, as well as the doctor's experience and other qualifications. Always choose a board certified facial plastic surgeon or a plastic... more
+2

Age for rhinoplasty

As long as you are medically healthy, rhinoplasty is great for a woman of any age. Removing the bump will improve your profile and garner more attention to features like your cheeks and eyes. The term "mature rhinoplasty" was developed to acknowledge that frequently when a rhinoplasty is performed, the patient frequently appears younger. Many women in my practice in their 40s and up are very pleased to see this improvement! In your case, you sound fortunate... more

You might also like...

Real Stories

May 20th Surgery Date. - Missoula, MT

Monday morning at 7:30AM I am finally going to have done what I have wanted for decades. I...

Before + After Photos

View 3471 Rhinoplasty photos
+2

Patients over 40 are great candidates for Rhinoplasty Surgery!

While rhinoplasty surgery is more common for individuals in their 20's and early 30's, those over 40 may find they are even happier with their rhinoplasty experience.  Patients over 40 have matured and generally have more realistic expectations for their nose.  Instead of thinking, "I just hate my nose and want a new one", they think, "I would like my hump or tip to be smaller", and they frequently don't want a completely different looking nose,... more
+2

You can enjoy the benefit of rhinoplasty in your 40's

Generally rhinoplasty has been considered the 'right of passage' type of procedure which is performed at about age 16 as one is planning life, school and future. Adults now though are just as common seeking nasal shaping, just as is the trend of adults with braces on their teeth. If you are committed rhinoplasty is a safe and effective procedure at any age. Be meticulous in your planning, and change only what you feel will reflect the real you inside. Best of luck... more
+2

How old is too old for rhinoplasty?

In your late 40s, you are not even in the prime of your life yet! You are far too young to be thinking about being too old for most anything. In fact, rhinoplasty can be helpful in correcting aesthetic and breathing concerns at any age considering you are in good health. It is possible to reduce a bump without touching the tip. However, depending on the size of the bump, it is sometimes necessary to narrow the nasal bones in order not to leave an unnaturally wide or flat appearance to... more
+2

Appropriate age for rhinoplasty

Hello Grace,  Thanks for the question. In my practice, I have performed both cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty in patients in their late 60's who are in good health. There is really no age restriction, as long as the patient is healthy enough to undergo anesthesia. For patients over 50, we typically ask for medical clearance from the primary care physician as well as an EKG and blood tests, to ensure patient safety. Overall, rhinoplasty can be rejuvenating for some patients in... more
+1

Rhinoplasty after 40

Being in your 40s should not inhibit you from having surgery. I would not perform rhinoplasty in patients in their 60s because, especially in men, the tip is unforgiving and the change is insufficient to warrant surgery. The disappointment rate is high in this age group and I generally dissuade them from undergoing surgery.
+1

Age and Rhinoplasty

As long as you are in good health, age is not a factor in Rhinoplasty. Select a well-trained Board Certified Facial Plastic or Plastic Surgeon. Upon consultation and examination your surgeon will be able to discuss the benefits, risks, and the expected results.
+1

Rhinoplasty in your late 40's

The rhinoplasty procedure is performed on many folks in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s. It is never too late for a rhinoplasty. A bump can be taken out of the bridge. However, a small bump can only be filed down, while a large bump would require narrowing of the nasal bones through osteotomies.  
+1

Decision should not be based on age, but on anticipated results

In my opinion, there is no absolute age limitation for rhinoplasty. When I select a patient who is an appropriate candidate for the procedure - I base my decision on the following: is the patient healthy enough to undergo few hours of general anesthesia; is there a change I can make in a positive direction that I can achieve reliability, predictably, and safely; and are the expectations of the patient realistic? Those are the most important considerations whether or not rhinoplasty is... more
+1

Rhinoplasty after 40

Dear Grace8 - reshaping the external nose is a very rewarding procedure for both patient and doctor - removing a bump or modifying the tip of the nose, however is always done in conjuction with the entire nose as the sturcture doesn't act in isolation.  So I encourage you to choose a surgeon who understands this concept and can explain how he would minimize change to the tip and yet address the hump and allow the nose to look nice and natural once it is all said and done... more
+1

Rhinoplasty in Late 40s

As long as they we're in good health, I've done rhinplasties in many patients a lot older than you. Over the past 35 years I've seen  more Individuals like yourself, who have become  educated  about improved rhinoplasty techniques and safer anesthesia, choose to improve nasal appearance and function as adults.
+1

You're never "too old" for rhinoplasty

Unless there is a medical reason not to perform an elective surgical procedure on you, you are never too old to straighten your profile and get rid of the "bump" on your nose.  Sometimes it is necessary to perform some other maneuvers after the bump is removed to make sure the "roof" of the nose is "closed."  If getting rid of this bump will make you feel better about yourself, I recommend you see a surgeon experienced in performing rhinoplasty to... more
+1

Rhinoplasty in the 40's

There is no age restriction for rhinoplasty (except usually at least 14 in girls and 16 in boys, pending on growth patterns). As always general health should be satisfactory. When removing the bump usualyl the lateral walls of the nose need to be narrowed lest the top of the nose will end up flat like a trapezoid. Sometimes some minor adjustment will also need to be made to the tip but this is up to you and the surgeon to discuss, perhaps illustrate with imaging. Good luck. more
+1

There is no "Age" limit

My mother always hated her nose. She would often turn her face when someone was glancing at her so they would not see her profile. Her greatest thrill was having her son "fix" her nose for her 68th birthday.  If the patient is healthy and has no medical contraindications, age is not a limiting factor.
+1

Rhinoplasty in older individuals

Rhinoplasty can be done at any age. What constitutes an appropriate nasal re contouring is the artistic objectives as it relates to age of the patient. A younger individual can have dramatic reshaping of the nose but an older individual should not undergo significant changes as it can result in a "fake" look. I think you are right on as to just removing the hump and not doing much more to the rest of the nose. So as one get older the less is better. Good luck.
+1

Is 40 to old for rhinoplasty and can *only* the bump be removed?

Although most rhinoplasty procedures are performed when the individual is younger (re: late teens through early 30s), you can certainly have the operation later in life. My primary concern when performing rhinoplasty on older individuals is that they have become used to a particular appearance as a result of having lived with it for so many years. It isn't uncommon for the results to seem rather dramatic at first given that even a very slight correction can appear rather significant... more
+1

Rhinoplasty - O.K. after 40?

Providing you are relatively healthy your age should not pose any particular problems as it relates to Rhinoplasty surgery. Reducing the bridge will often necessitate mobilizing the nasal bones so that the nose remains narrow along the bridge line. It will take a consultation with a nasal surgeon to determine which would be in your best interest. Either way you can obtain a natural un-operated look. Best of Luck
+1

40 is a great age to pursue rhinoplasty

There is no upper limit on a person's age that would preclude them from pursuing rhinoplasty. As long as a person is healthy and has realistic expectations this surgery is appropriate for you. Rhinoplasty is among the most complicated procedures that Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeons perform so I would recommend finding someone with alot of experience with nasal surgery. Best, Stephen Weber, M.D., Ph.D. Lone Tree Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Best age for rhinoplasty

Thanks for the question. Any age over 18 (for men) and 16 (for women), in general, is acceptable for a rhinoplasty procedure, assuming you are in good health.  I recommend finding a board certified plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon who has a practice emphasis in rhinoplasty. Additionally, ask to see plenty of before and after pictures so that you may develop a clear understanding of the style of surgery performed by that particular surgeon.  Warmest Regards... more
+1

Hump or Bump nose job (rhinoplasty) only

Yes, it is possible for a hump only rhinoplasty to be completed. This may leave what we call and "open roof" which may require closure with bringing in of the nasal bones to close the opening.
+1

Yes only bump can be removed.

See an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon who does natural noses. See live patients, not computerphotos.
+1

Rhinoplasty at any age.

Absolutely not! Many of our patients have rhinoplasty procedures a little later in life.  Rhinoplasty is one of the most rewarding procedures for patients who are bothered by their nose.  Just because you are considering a rhinoplasty, it doesn't mean that you have to make "major" changes.   Often, a "nosejob" is a procedure where minor changes are corrected. see video
+1

40 Year Old Rhinoplasty

Grace if you are healthy, have reasonable expectation and just want the nasal "hump" removed - you sound like a good candidate for a rhinoplasty.  I would probably recommend an endonasal rhinoplasty if you are happy with the rest of your nose and just want the hump removal.
+1

Rhinoplasty over 40

It is perfectly fine to have a rhinoplasty if you desire if you are older than 40.  This is done quite often. Good luck.
+1

40s, 50s, 60s all ok for Rhinoplasty if your general health is good

Your age is not a problem as long as you are generally healthy. As to just taking down the hump, i find that problematic. Usually when there is a dorsal hump there is a wide boney dorsum which also needs to be addressed. Then there is the relationship of the septum and upper lateral cartilages to the boney dorsum. So in essence it is important to look at the nose in its entirety and make a plan which addresses all the issues and gives you a aesthetic pleasing nose which lets you breath well... more
+1

No but here is the deal...

Hi, Your age is fine.  I have done Rhinoplasties in patients in their 60's and 70's and it actually often makes people look younger. You have to make sure your nose is "age appropriate" and pretty but natural.  A 14 year olds nose will not look right on a 40 year old.  More importantly, you have to make sure your plastic surgeon understands your goals.  Too often I see patients who came out of a rhinoplasty with things they did not want or ask... more
+1

No age limit for rhinoplasty

If you are in good health, there is no age limit for having a rhinoplasty procedure.  It certainly sounds like you have realistic goals about what can be accomplished.  I would recommend a consultation with an experienced facial plastic surgeon who performs rhinoplasty regularly.
+1

Late 40s Is Not Too Late for Rhinoplasty

You shouldn't let age be a deterent in considering rhinoplasty. There is no age limit for rhinoplasty. As long as your health is good don't let age be an issue. Regarding your bridge, an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon should be able to remove the bump but maintain the look of the rest of your nose.
+1

40 year old Rhinoplasty

Fortunately, there is no age limit for rhinoplasty.  Rather, when making a decision about any elective surgery, the overall health of the patient is the most important factor.  Furthermore, the problems that you describe can be addressed very easily in experienced hands.  If all that is needed is the bump removed, this surgery can be done with incisions inside the nostrils only.  The nasal tip area isn't involved at all, so you shouldn't have any affect... more
+1

Is Late 40s Too Late for Rhinoplasty?

Regarding: "Is Late 40s Too Late for Rhinoplasty? I don't have a straight profile and I'd like to finally take care of it. My nose is elegant from the front - thin nostrils and it's probably just the right length for my face. Can one remove the 'bump' but keep the rest of the nose - & is it okay at this age to do so? Thanks." It is absolutely NOT too late to have a rhinoplasty if you are otherwise healthy. Moreover, a hump CAN be reduced without... more
+1

Timing of Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)

40's is certainly not too late to have rhinoplasty, although afterward you'll likely be so pleased you'll wish you had done it sooner.  There are two general categories of aesthetic surgery:  Procedures to change your look, and procedures to restore your look.  Rhinoplasty is in the former group, and is more characteristically sought by the young.  Still, 40's (and beyond) is not too old to make a change you've wanted for such a long time.  You... more
+1

40s is a perfect age for rhinoplasty

40 years old is not too old to have rhinoplasty.  We often do rhinoplasty on people in their 60's.  You certainly can reduce the bump on the bridge without affecting the tip at all.
Doctors will not see your comments on their answers. If you'd like to follow up, please go here to ask another question.

Comments (0)

Ask a Question

Welcome Back

Sign in with Facebook

Your information remains private and will not be posted without your permission.

Forgot your password?

Don't have an account? Create one now.

Join RealSelf

Join with Facebook

Your information remains private and will not be posted without your permission.

Please enter a valid email address
 Did you mean ?

By creating an account, you are indicating that you have read and accept the RealSelf Terms of Use.

Already a member? Sign In.

Retrieve your password

Enter your username or email address and we will send you a link to login.

Check your email

Check your email. We've sent you a link to reset your password.

Ok