Can a 15-year-old Have Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Question

Is 15 year old safe for rhinoplasty for a female? any docter that can do it?

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

Generally speaking, Rhinoplasty is best offered when mid-facial development is complete.  For the vast majority of females, consideration of Rhinoplasty is acceptable at age 15.

Oakley Smith, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It's not the age that determines when rhinoplasty can or can't be done. It's the psychological and physical maturity. The nose has for the most part developed by 15. So its usually the emotional maturity that's the deciding point. Parents need to be involved and supportive. Any doctor can't do Rhinoplasty. It is generally acknowledged to be the most difficult of all plastic surgeries. A rhinoplasty surgeon must be trained, experienced and skilled.

David C. Pearson, MD · Answer

Anatomy aside, one of the other things we surgeons try to assess is the emotional maturity of the patient seeking cosmetic surgery, including rhinoplasty. Goals, motivations, tolerance of discomfort, insight into outcomes of surgery all get factored in. A good rhinoplasty candidate needs to demonstrate a grown-up attitude toward surgery, too.

	Additionally, patients under 18--at least here in the U.S.--need their parent's permission and consent.

	All the best,

	--DCP

Etai Funk, MD · Answer

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 to two years after their menarche (first menstrual period) depending on their facial growth. Teenage boys are more variable, but the surgery can typically be performed successfully by age 16. It is also important that you are not only physically ready for this type of surgery, but psychologically prepared for a change in your appearance.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Yes, there is no problem for females since their nose will not be growing any more. See an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon for the best results.

Can a 15-year-old Have Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Answers (9)