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Published on 16 Jan 2024

The Right Age For Rhinoplasty: The Minimum and Maximum Age to Have a Nose Job

  • ByMedical Content Team
  • Medically Reviewed byDr. Sabine Kulhanek
  • Fact checked

The Right Age For Rhinoplasty: The Minimum and Maximum Age to Have a Nose Job

Rhinoplasty has gained wide popularity recently, thanks to improved medical technology and the growing trend towards plastic surgery. No matter your country, culture, race, or religion, rhinoplasty is a highly desired cosmetic surgery for people from all walks of life. And rightly so, as everyone wants to feel good, and not everyone is born with the nose they want to live with. For some, it is a medical problem; for others, it is an aesthetic issue. But the good news is that rhinoplasty offers a long-lasting solution to both medical conditions and public image concerns.

However, “Is there such a thing as being too young or too old for rhinoplasty?" you might ask. "And if so, what is the right age to get a nose job?" Very often, the question is especially important for children and teens, who are susceptible to embarrassment or bullying at school for their nose and are anxious to undergo surgery and embrace their new look. Well, lucky you; this article looks deeper at rhinoplasty in different age groups and the ideal age to get a nose job. So keep reading to find out more.

Does Age Matter For Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure, and like other surgeries, age becomes an important factor in evaluating a patient's risk for complications. First, most plastic surgeons prefer general anesthesia over local anesthesia for rhinoplasty to get the best results. As the name suggests, general anesthesia is when you become fully unconscious and unaware of the procedure being performed.

eyeglass-after-nose-job

Since general anesthesia tends to be a little harder on the brain and the body, age becomes an important factor, especially for older adults. 

Furthermore, age-related health conditions, like hypertension and heart and lung conditions, also increase the risk of side effects. Likewise, the mental maturity of the person undergoing rhinoplasty also matters. It is not just the size or shape of the nose; a person considering rhinoplasty must have realistic expectations and choose rhinoplasty for the right reasons. Not only is a nose job a permanent procedure, it only changes the look of a nose and not how they feel inside about themselves. So, if a person is in their early to mid-teens, having rhinoplasty in their late teens could be worth the wait. 

Minimum Age For Rhinoplasty

minimum-age-for-rhinoplasty-

While 18 is the technical age to reach adulthood, the minimum age to get a nose job is when the nose reaches its full adult size, usually around 15 to 17 years. Most surgeons are reluctant to perform the procedure on a nose that has reached less than 90 percent of its adult growth, as the best results are obtained with a fully matured nose. Research suggests that secondary rhinoplasty rates are higher in teenagers than in adults. Furthermore, rhinoplasty on an underdeveloped nose may lead to nose distortion and disturbed facial growth.

Since girls tend to develop a little faster than boys and their nose reaches adult size earlier, they can get a nose job at 15 to 16. On the other hand, boys can get rhinoplasty one or two years later, at 16 or 17. However, regardless of gender, the exact right age varies from person to person. As a result, face-to-face evaluation is the best way to determine if you are a good candidate for rhinoplasty.

Also read: What Happens before Rhinoplasty and How to Prepare for the Procedure

However, there are no concrete reasons to avoid rhinoplasty earlier. You can get a nose job earlier if you have a medical condition or want to correct imperfections due to sports or non-sports injuries. If the child is physically and mentally mature and has realistic expectations, the procedure can be performed as early as 12. Rhinoplasty is one of the most common aesthetic procedures teens choose. However, children below 12 should not get rhinoplasty. 

Maximum Age For Rhinoplasty

While there is no age limit, rhinoplasty over 55 is quite uncommon for cosmetic reasons. That said, you can still get a nose job in your 60s or 70s. However, the approach and results may be affected by old age. For example, skin elasticity decreases with age, and the skin does not bounce back as quickly as the skin of younger people. Furthermore, as the person ages, it takes longer to recover from the surgical wounds, with incisions taking longer to heal and the swelling lasting longer. 

Rhinoplasty in older people is a unique challenge for the facial plastic surgeon. The changes in muscle strength and the weakened nasal cartilage require extra care from the surgeon. Even minor changes and small imperfections become more apparent in older adults. However, rhinoplasty in the elder is quite common for medical reasons such as nasal obstruction or traumatic deformity. Furthermore, rhinoplasty for aesthetic concerns is not uncommon in the middle-aged group between 40 and 60.

The Right Age For Rhinoplasty

While there are no specific guidelines as to when is the right age for rhinoplasty, 18 to 40 is considered the ideal range by most plastic surgeons. Research suggests that the median age for rhinoplasty is 26 worldwide. By this time, you not only have matured physically but mentally as well and have realistic expectations. Your nose has achieved full growth, and your body can tolerate the stress of a cosmetic procedure. Your skin is elastic to make changes, the recovery time is shorter, and the overall risk of complications is low. 

However, if you are below 18 or above 40, you may still be a good candidate for rhinoplasty. Furthermore, age itself is not that important, but rather your overall health and the body's ability to withstand the stress of surgery. Talk to your plastic surgeon for more information and what precautions you must take if you are under 18 or over 40.

Is Rhinoplasty Different In Younger People From The Old? 

Rhinoplasty procedure in younger people is essentially the same as in older people, with similar desired outcomes. However, the focus of the procedure is on different things. For example, rhinoplasty for younger people typically involves:

  • Fixing asymmetry
  • Removing nasal humps
  • Trimming an overly long nose
  • Narrowing or straightening the nasal bridge

However, in middle-aged and older people, the main focus typically is:

  • Narrowing a bulbous nose
  • Lifting a drooping tip
  • Decreasing the size of the nose
  • Correcting breathing issues caused by weakened cartilage

Am I A Good Candidate For Rhinoplasty?

You are a good candidate for the procedure if you are between 18 and 40 years old and have no medical condition, such as a bleeding disorder. Furthermore, if you have a medical condition such as a deviated nasal septum or congenital nose deformity, have realistic expectations, and understand the limitations of the procedure, you are an excellent candidate.

nose-job-age

On the other hand, being below 18 or above 40 does not automatically disqualify a person from getting rhinoplasty. It just means that your plastic surgeon must ensure you are the right fit for the procedure. 

What are the risks of rhinoplasty for teenage patients?

If you are a teenager and your nose has yet to achieve its adult size and shape, your doctor would recommend waiting a year or so, depending on your age. This is because of the following factors: 

  • Incomplete facial growth: The main concern with rhinoplasty in younger patients is that their facial growth may not be complete. The nose typically continues to grow and change until the late teens or early 20s. Performing rhinoplasty before growth is complete can lead to unpredictable outcomes and may require additional surgeries later on.
  • Emotional and psychological factors: Teenagers may not be emotionally mature enough to make a decision about cosmetic surgery, and they may not fully understand the potential risks and complications. It's important for younger patients to discuss their reasons for wanting the surgery and to have realistic expectations about the results.
  • Anesthesia risks: Rhinoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia, which carries some risks, such as allergic reactions or complications related to the heart or lungs. These risks may be higher for younger patients, particularly if they have pre-existing medical conditions.
  • Surgical complications: As with any surgery, rhinoplasty carries risks such as infection, bleeding, or scarring. These risks may be higher for younger patients, who may have less developed immune systems or who may not follow post-operative care instructions as closely as adults.
  • Unsatisfactory results: Rhinoplasty is a complex procedure that requires an experienced surgeon to achieve the desired results. However, even with a skilled surgeon, there is always a risk that the results may not meet the patient's expectations. This can be particularly distressing for younger patients, who may have less experience dealing with disappointment or may be more prone to negative reactions from peers.

It is crucial for parents and teenagers considering rhinoplasty to discuss the procedure with a qualified plastic surgeon who has experience working with younger patients. The surgeon can help determine if the patient is a good candidate for surgery and can provide guidance on the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a 13, 14, or 15-year-old get a nose job?

Yes, a 13, 14, or 15-year-old can get rhinoplasty for medical reasons such as sports or non-sports-related injuries. However, to improve aesthetic concerns resulting from genetic imperfections, it is better to wait until the nose is fully developed, usually by 15 - 16 years of age for girls and 16 - 17 years of age for boys.

How much is a nose job for a 13, 14, or 15-year-old?

The rhinoplasty cost for a 13, 14, or 15-year-old is the same as for an adult. It ranges from $2500 to $10000, with an average cost of around $5400. However, the overall cost depends on many factors, such as your doctor's experience, location, technology, and staff availability. 

Do people under 18 need parental consent to get rhinoplasty?

While no laws in the US prevent teenagers from getting rhinoplasty, parental consent is usually needed for under-18s. Thus, the responsibility falls on parents to help their children make the right decision.

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Comments (12)

Sarah

Why should I wait? I can surgery twice :) once now at 16 and another time later... will there be any issues if I go through with this plan?

Belorens

Reply to Sarah

The primary concern with undergoing rhinoplasty at a younger age, such as 16, is that the nose may not have fully matured. Nasal growth and development continue until the late teens or early twenties. If you have surgery before your nose has fully developed, there's a possibility that the results could be affected as your nose continues to change over time. The recovery process after rhinoplasty can be challenging. Undergoing surgery twice within a short time frame could prolong the overall recovery period and potentially increase the risk of complications.

Jasmine

I am Indian. I visited an ENT surgeon in Nashik (my town), and she said, 'I can't do surgery until 20.' Now, here is my question: The usual age I read on the Internet is about 18 years old, and that specialist said 20 years old for me. When can I do my nose job? Am I different?"

Belorens

Reply to Jasmine

Different surgeons may have slightly different opinions based on their experience and evaluation of your unique case. In general, the age range for rhinoplasty tends to be around the late teens to early twenties, when nasal growth is usually complete. However, there is no one-size-fits-all answer, as each person's growth and development timeline can be unique.

I need to know the exact age, but there is no specific number that applies to all people. Is there a recommended minimum age for Rhinoplasty? Please inform me as I really need to know before making a decision. Thank you.

Belorens

Reply to vonns84

The recommended minimum age for rhinoplasty can vary and is typically not solely based on a specific chronological age. Instead, it depends on various factors, including physical development, emotional maturity, and individual circumstances. It's essential to have a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon or an experienced facial plastic surgeon who can evaluate your specific situation and provide personalized advice.

Hello. I have a question: What is the proper age to have nose surgery, and at what age is Rhinoplasty generally considered safe? I'm a 17-year-old girl btw.

Belorens

Reply to ngyl

Hello! The ideal age for having rhinoplasty typically is when a person's facial growth is complete. For most females, this occurs around the ages of 15-16. Given your age of 17, you may be physically ready for the procedure. However, an examination by a qualified surgeon, who can assess your individual growth and the shape of your nose, is crucial to determine your suitability for this surgery.

Beyond physical readiness, it's equally important to consider your emotional maturity and understanding of the procedure.

chiarra2008

Ive heard that Rhinoplasty is harmful for young people also it’s not safe.

Belorens

Reply to chiarra2008

In discussions about rhinoplasty for young people, it's crucial to define the age range we're considering as "young." Facial growth is typically completed by late adolescence. Undergoing rhinoplasty before this developmental phase could potentially interfere with the natural growth and development of the face, particularly the nose. For girls, this growth is generally complete by age 16, while for boys, it may extend until age 18 or even older. Thus, for individuals aged 18 to 40-50, considerations regarding age are largely the same.

However, the ultimate decision to undergo rhinoplasty should be made in consultation with a professional such as a board-certified plastic surgeon or an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist). They can comprehensively assess the individual's situation, weighing all relevant factors including physical development, emotional readiness, and overall health status.

LunaDreamer

Ive been looking to have surgery for 2 years, but now I'm not sure if I can go through with it or not. How can I determine if my body's special factors and physical characteristics allow me to have the surgery? While some people can undergo it at young ages, others may need to wait longer to be in a good situation.

Belorens

Reply to LunaDreamer

Deciding whether to undergo surgery is a significant and personal decision that should be made in consultation with a qualified medical professional.