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Can I straighten my crooked nose? How old would I have to be to get it straightened?

In 14 and my nose is very crooked, I can't really breathe as good out of my right nostril as good as my left. How old would I have to be to get it straightened?

Doctor Answers 7

How old to get nose straightened

July 28th, 2014
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It's usually ok to consider having nose surgery to straighten it out around 14-17 years old. It sounds like you have quite a bit of functional problems with breathing from your nose so this aspect could be improved as well.

You and your parents should consult with a surgeon who is experienced in correcting this type of problem. you can read more about crooked nose repair and see some before and after photos at my web reference link below.

Web reference: http://www.rhinoplastyinseattle.com/rhinoplasty-treatments/crooked-nose

Thomas A. Lamperti, MD


Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 21 reviews

Septorhinoplasty Candidate

July 27th, 2014
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Dear Lilyme, You are certainly of age at this time to consult with surgeons with your parents present for consent. Upon examination and consultation it would then be discussed what your surgical needs are to attain both proper function and aesthetics. It seems you are a probable candidate for septorhinoplasty which is a combined procedure. The "septo" portion addressing the septum and breathing issues and the "rhinoplasty" portion addressing the aesthetic changes you desire. Digital imaging may be done during the consultation to show you and your parents the proposed surgical result. After this a surgical plan with a time and date may be set and this will depend upon the maturity of the nose, your specific needs,  etc.. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Web reference: http://www.mihaelelammd.com

Michael Elam, MD

Michael Elam, MD
Orange County Facial Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 195 reviews

Age of rhinoplasty

August 2nd, 2014
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Great question!  In general your nose keeps growing  all the way to the completion of puberty.  A lot of people might suggest that you wait until that time.  Given your functional problems with breathing it might make sense to do it early.   
Chad K. Wheeler, MD

Straighten a crooked nose

July 27th, 2014
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Dear Lilyme
  • How old do you have to be for rhinoplasty? Well, it depends on how severe your breathing problems are, as well as how much growth you have left as you get older. 
  • We repair children's noses with rhinoplasty at young ages, but most wait until your face has matured for a  cosmetic surgery.
  • It is worth discussing with a surgeon and your parents, 
    • possibly checking the cause of your breathing problem with a small camera, 
    • and reviewing the best options for you.
    • Best Wishes 




Web reference: http://drtravistollefson.com

Travis T. Tollefson, MD, MPH

Travis T. Tollefson, MD, MPH
Sacramento Facial Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 5 reviews

Rhinoplasty

July 26th, 2014
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If you nose is crooked and creating difficulty berating you are a candidate for surgery and only need parental permission 

Dr Corbin

Web reference: http://www.noseexpert.com

Frederic H. Corbin, MD

Frederic H. Corbin, MD
Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 58 reviews

14 Year Old with Crooked Nose

July 26th, 2014
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A setorhinoplasty will be necessary to straighten your nose and improve your breathing. I will do this procedure in a female  beginning at age 14-16. Remember, you will need parental or guardian permission.
Richard W. Fleming, MD

Richard W. Fleming, MD
Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 37 reviews

rhinoplasty to straighten a crooked nose

July 26th, 2014
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 The rhinoplasty procedure can straighten the crooked nose. This is accomplished with medial and lateral osteotomies of the nasal bones and re-setting them straight. In addition a cartilaginous spreader graft harvested from inside the nose  will most likely be required on the concave side. For many examples of crooked nose repair in our practice, and more information, please see the link below

Web reference: http://www.seattlefacial.com/progallery/crooked_photos18.html

William Portuese, MD

William Portuese, MD
Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon
4.7 out of 5 stars 125 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.