Is it necessary to reach my goal weight before a nose job?

Question

I'm about 20 lbs from a normal bmi, 40 lbs from my goal weight (Female, 5'9, early 20s, in good health). I'm wondering if, for aesthetic reasons, I shouldn't have a nose job until I've reached my goal weight because my facial appearance will continue to change as I lose weight. Will excess face weight affect decisions about nose size/shape, etc? Will my nose suit my face better if I wait, or does it not really matter? (I'd say I store an average amount of weight in my face for someone my size.)

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

A rhinoplasty should improve the balance and harmony of the facial features. This shape and size the nose are not changed secondary to changes your weight.  I see no aesthetic advantages or disadvantages of reaching a goal weight for rhinoplasty.Hope this helps

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Weight loss will have no effect int the rhinoplasty, so it wouldn't matter if you lost the weight before surgery.

Justin C. Cohen, MD, FACS · Answer

I think it's great that you have chosen to be healthy! In general, the nose itself remains relatively unchanged with weight fluctuations so there is no inherent downside to having the operation earlier.However, as part of the recovery you will be unable to maintain your aggressive exercise regimen for about 2 months (1st month pretty strict) and risk stalling your weight loss efforts.  I would recommend you keep grinding and then reward yourself when you reach your goal. Good luck!

Curtis Perry, MD · Answer

The changes your face would have following weight lose will not effect the aesthetic planning for rhinoplasty.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Yes, it is not excellent idea to be  at your ideal body weight before opting to undergo cosmetic surgery.  In addition to better facial proportions, more importantly is you body's reaction to the anesthesia.  In our practice, anesthesiologists will not perform anesthesia on patients with a BMI over 34.  This is for patient safety reasons.

Is it necessary to reach my goal weight before a nose job?

Answers (9)