Candidates for Rhinoplasty Surgery

The primary candidate for rhinoplasty surgery is a male or female who is dissatisfied with their nose and its contours. Nose reshaping cosmetic surgery can correct a variety of imperfections such as a bump on the bridge of the nose, asymmetry, or a bulbous tip. Other rhinoplasty candidates are individuals who experience breathing difficulties due to structural deficiencies of the nose. There are many cosmetic and functional benefits associated with nose reshaping.

Who is a Good Rhinoplasty Candidate?

The majority of individuals who undergo nose shaping surgery are unhappy with the appearance of their noses and wish to improve the balance of their facial features. A smaller percentage of rhinoplasty candidates are patients who deal with discomfort or breathing difficulties due to structural abnormalities or previous injuries of the nose. Regardless of the reason for surgery, it is recommended that girls wait until age 14 or 15 and boys a few additional years to undergo rhinoplasty. This will ensure that the nose has finished growing before it is reshaped. Good candidates for rhinoplasty are in good general health, understand the risks associated with surgery, and have realistic expectations regarding the surgery results.

Ideal Nose Reshaping Candidates

A good candidate for nose-reshaping cosmetic surgery may:

• Have a nose that he or she feels is too large or too small in comparison with other facial features
• Have a bump on the bridge of the nose
• Have a wide nose
• Have a nasal tip that droops, protrudes, or is enlarged
• Have a bulbous tip
• Have nostrils that are excessively flared or pinched
• Have a nose that is crooked or off-center
• Have been injured so that the nose is asymmetrical
• Have problems breathing due to irregularities with internal nose structure

Is Surgery Safe for Teens?

Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries among teenagers. It is important for teenage patients and their surgeons to consider whether or not nose reshaping is an appropriate cosmetic surgery option and to ensure that the decision is the patient's, rather than the result of peer or parental pressure.

What Specific Goals Can a Nose Job Meet?

Nose reshaping cosmetic surgery can be used to modify the shape, size, and overall appearance of the nose. In some cases, the plastic surgeon may recommend that a chin implant be inserted at the same time as the nose reshaping. Common goals of cosmetic surgery/rhinoplasty patients include:

• Narrowing the bridge of the nose
• Widening or narrowing the nostrils
• Straightening a crooked nose
• Nose tip reshaping
• Altering the angle between the nose and upper lip

In most cases, the incisions used for nose reshaping cosmetic surgery can be hidden inside the nose or placed inconspicuously outside it. Minimal scarring fits in with the overall goal of improving appearance and maintaining a natural look.

General Considerations

A good nose reshaping candidate should have realistic expectations and specific goals that he or she discusses with the cosmetic surgeon ahead of time. Good candidates should be physically healthy and emotionally prepared for both the cosmetic surgery itself and the time needed for recovery.

An initial nose reshaping consultation with a qualified doctor can provide the patient with necessary information. The physician will assess whether the individual patient is a good candidate for nose reshaping after an initial cosmetic surgery consultation and examination.

Visit the DocShop gallery to view rhinoplasty before and after photos.

Photo credit: Minas Constantinides, MD, FACS, PC

Many Patients Want to Know ...

Is It Common for Men to Undergo Rhinoplasty?

Yes, in fact rhinoplasty is one of the most common plastic surgeries that males undergo each year. However, because men and women have distinct aesthetic goals when it comes to facial plastic surgery, it is important for a man who is considering surgery to see a doctor who is experienced in treating males. Learn more about the unique elements of male rhinoplasty.

Contact a Surgeon

Contact a local plastic surgeon to find out if you are a good candidate for rhinoplasty.