Rhinoplasty is the most common cosmetic surgery performed on American teens. In 2013 this procedure was performed on more than 30,000 teens. While rhinoplasty can safely be performed teenage patients, it isn’t always the right time. Working closely with a trusted cosmetic surgeon is essential in determining if the timing is right. Here are some factors to consider:

• Wait Until the Nose is Grown– Teens should wait until their nose reaches its adult size before they undergo rhinoplasty surgery. Females typically achieve this at a younger age than male patients. Girls are typically ready for rhinoplasty at 15 or 16 (sometimes earlier) while boys are usually ready about a year later at 16 or 17.
• Maturity Matters– Size of the nose isn’t the only aspect to consider when thinking about teenage rhinoplasty. It is also important to make sure the prospective patient is sufficiently mature for surgery. Rhinoplasty is a permanent surgical procedure. Teens considering rhinoplasty need to choose the procedure for the correct reasons and to have realistic expectations for after the surgery. Rhinoplasty can change the look of your nose, but it isn’t going to change how you feel about yourself deep down.
• Consider Non-Invasive Nasal Correction– In some cases non-invasive nasal correction (using various fillers to improve the shape and contours of the nose) can be an effective option for those not yet ready for surgical rhinoplasty. This technique isn’t permanent, but can give stunning results in about 15 minutes with no recovery time.