As surgical techniques become more sophisticated and as young people become increasingly interested in taking care of their appearance and health, it is natural that young men and women are among those seeking surgeries such as rhinoplasty. However, there are certain considerations that a surgeon should pay attention to before approving and scheduling this type of surgery for those under a certain age. This brings up the question, how young is too young for rhinoplasty?
WHAT IS RHINOPLASTY?
Rhinoplasty is surgery of the nose and is usually done for one of two reasons: cosmetic or functional. Cosmetic rhinoplasty can correct cosmetic problems such as a crooked nose or a bump on the nose or it can be used to reduce the width of the nose or reshape the tip of the nose. Functional rhinoplasty addresses health problems such as a deviated septum or a nasal fracture that can reduce airflow and affect the patient’s ability to breathe freely. Many times, rhinoplasty surgery can correct aesthetic and functional problems at the same time. Dr. Guevara uses a closed technique that involves only internal incisions, resulting in reduced scarring, swelling and recovery time.
WHAT IS A GOOD AGE TO CONSIDER RHINOPLASTY?
Deciding at what age a patient can undergo rhinoplasty surgery is important. Dr. Guevara always takes into consideration the patient’s physical growth and development as well as his or her emotional and mental maturity. Physically, females complete most of their nasal growth at age 15 and males at age 17. Therefore, those younger than these ages will usually not be good candidates for surgery, as it can complicate their natural growth and development.
If it is determined that a prospective patient has completed their physical growth, the surgeon then looks at their maturity and emotional development. Although consent can usually be obtained from a patient at 16 years of age, Dr. Guevara only uses this as a guideline. He takes the time to talk with each young patient to determine if they fully understand the surgery, why they want the surgery, and if they are aware of the risks and recovery time of the surgery. He will also consult with the parents of those under 18 to make sure they are fully aware of all the risks of the surgery and how to help care for their child during recovery.
It is also important to make sure that the young patient has reasonable expectations about the outcome of their rhinoplasty. If a young patient desires the nose of a certain celebrity or wants a result that does not look natural or fit with their other facial features, Dr. Guevara may find that they are not good candidates for surgery. During his consultation, the surgeon will make sure that the patient and their parents do not have unrealistic expectations and that they fully understand what the final result of the surgery will be both aesthetically and functionally.
HOW CAN I CHOOSE THE RIGHT PLASTIC SURGEON FOR RHINOPLASTY?
Whether you are a young person seeking rhinoplasty or the parent of a minor seeking rhinoplasty, it is vital that you choose a caring and compassionate surgeon who is an expert in his field. Dr. Robert Guevara is a specialist who has performed over 5,000 major procedures in his career. Ninety-five percent of his surgeries are on the nose, which allows him to provide a very high level of expertise to his patients. Dr. Guevara is knowledgeable and experienced in all types of rhinoplasty, including ethnic rhinoplasty and other difficult cases that require intense structural work. Dr. Guevara is ranked as one of the top doctors in the nation. When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Guevara, you will know you are working with a true professional who will provide you with the highest level of patient care.
Deciding whether rhinoplasty surgery is appropriate for a young person is not a decision that should be taken lightly. It should be a decision shared between the patient, his or her parents and the plastic surgeon who will perform the surgery. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Guevara today to find out if functional or cosmetic rhinoplasty is the right choice for you or your child.