Is 14 Years Old Too Young for Rhinoplasty?

The age limits on teenage rhinoplasty are arbitrarily set to insure maturity of physical and mental emotional development. I know a few adult patients who have not reached this goal.  As a minor, your parents will have to take responsibility and consequences of the results.  I hear that you really want to proceed.  Ask yourself "what if it doesn't come out the way I want it?"

I know in Canada, most surgeons would not operate until the age of 16, some will even wait until age 18.  The person's maturity, both physical and emotional, is crucial for any body/face-enhancing procedures.  Rhinoplasty has a significant emotional component and I would recommend you wait a few more years prior to undergoing such a procedure.

If your nose looks mature and you have stopped growing 14 years old is old enough for a rhinoplasty.

Having a nose that is out of character
with your face because it is too large, bulbous, large hump can be a difficult
issue during growing up and a source of lowered esteem and confidence. Although
surgery to re-shape the nose with rhinoplasty can improve the appearance of the
nose it is important that other factors are considered:
Teenage years are one of the most challenging periods
in our lives. As we develop from childhood to adulthood, our physical
appearance takes center stage. Although teenage insecurities are a normal part
of adolescence, if a young person’s self-esteem is adversely affected by
unsatisfactory facial features, such as the shape or size of one’s nose, then
rhinoplasty may provide a solution. Physical growth of the nose is complete towards 13 to
16 years old for girls and 15 to 17 years old for boys. Adolescents should only
seek nasal reconstructive surgery when their noses have reached their full
size. Most boys mature later than girls, and this explains why their procedures
typically take place later.Psychology and maturity are important, as are the ability to
understand the concepts of surgery with rhinoplasty. Teenagers must determine
their reason for surgery and evaluate the benefits and drawbacks.Consultation and discussion over objectives from rhinoplasty,
understanding of the surgery as well as expectations from surgery are important
throughout the decision-making process. The teenager needs to be sufficiently
mature to cope with the recovery period, which may involve bleeding, bruising, discomfort
and swelling.

The textbook answer would be to wait until you are 15. However, if you have a more mature facial appearance one could presume that you have very little mid facial growth that is left to mature.  The fact that no work would be done on the bones of your nose to remove a hump or narrow it would let you fall into a reasonable safe category at your age.  The reason the recommendations exist on age is for this reason...as you want to avoid restricting the bony growth of the mid-face. 

But there is no rush!!  At any point moving forward you can have the procedure done and have an excellent result if you seek a consult with a Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon who routinely performs rhinoplasty.  Sit down and have an honest discussion with your parents to see if everyone is in agreement and then move forward accordingly.

Good luck!