For those under the age of 18, rhinoplasty (nose surgery) is the second most popular cosmetic procedure. What motivates teenagers to reshape their noses?

Rhinoplasty is typically requested by patients for one of two reasons:

  1. To improve function
  2. To improve form

Functional reasons include breathing or sinus troubles due to defects like a deviated septum, which requires a procedure called a septoplasty. Rhinoplasty is commonly performed just to repair internal functional issues, leaving the external form untouched.

However, those who find themselves in the office of a facial plastic surgeon are often there for aesthetic reasons. For them, the way their nose looks, its form, is their motivation.

A wide range of cosmetic concerns can be addressed by rhinoplasty surgery, including, but not limited to:

  • A crooked nose
  • A disproportionate nose (too large or too small)
  • A pointed nose
  • A bulbous nose
  • A bump
  • A sloping bridge
  • Nostrils that are too wide or too narrow

Self-Esteem and Confidence

Making changes to the nose can lead to a huge boost in self-confidence and self-esteem, an important consideration for those going through the difficult years of adolescence.

The Best Age

Unless it is a functional matter, surgery should not be considered until the child is fully grown and their nose is fully developed. This is often around the age of 16. But can vary depending on the sex of the patient. For females, full nasal development is usually about a year or two after their first menstrual cycle. In males, development can vary dramatically, often ranging from the age of 13 until 21 or even a bit older.

Because of this variation, the initial consultation with a doctor to assess all these factors isn’t just important, but essential. In addition to their physical development, the doctor will also assess the young patient’s emotional maturity. This is to make sure that they have reasonable expectations and are mature enough to take care of their nose following surgery.

During the consultation, our staff will also check with your health insurance to see if they cover functional nose surgery such as a septoplasty.

Rhinoplasty is always tailored to each individual patient. And because the goal is always to achieve a natural, harmonious appearance it is often combined with other facial surgery like neck liposuction or a chin implant.

Schedule an Appointment to Learn More

If you would like to know more about rhinoplasty, book a complimentary evaluation by contacting the office of Dr. Rami K. Batniji M.D., F.A.C.S. at his Beverly Hills office (310-467-2180) or Newport Beach/Orange County office (949-650-8882). Prospective patients can also email the staff to schedule their initial consultation and to discuss any concerns or questions. We can also assist with travel and financing arrangements.

Dr. Batniji is among only a handful of doctors who specialize in the face and neck regions in Southern California. As a result of this narrow focus, he is able to ensure the best results to rejuvenate those areas in a way that is natural in appearance, both surgically and non-surgically. He is board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and by the American Board of Otolaryngology. He has written extensively in a number of medical journals and speaks regularly at medical conferences and in mass media. Dr. Batniji will meet with you for a consultation to discuss your concerns and whether or not rhinoplasty can best address your needs.