Perhaps more than any other age group, teenagers are more likely to be judged by their peers. Outward appearance plays a big role in how much confidence teens have. For many adolescents, a crooked, large or ill-fitting nose can result in bullying, teasing and discomfort. Teenage rhinoplasty helps create a more balanced, harmonious face while maintaining the patient’s overall facial features. As of 2012, the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS) reported that teenage rhinoplasty is the most prominent plastic surgery procedure performed on teens. In fact, teen nose jobs are five times more popular than they were just 15 years ago. Dr Julian De Silva, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon based in West London, often talks to parents and teens about rhinoplasty. Dr De Silva understands that on top of other insecurities that accompany adolescence, having a “large nose” can increase stress and emotional turmoil.
When The Time is Right Sometimes parents feel uneasy about allowing their teenager to have plastic surgery. Making the decision to have rhinoplasty is an entirely personal decision that stays with you and your child for life. It’s important to remember that adolescence is a very tumultuous period, and self-confidence is beneficial for emotional growth and social development. When it comes to teenage rhinoplasty, timing is important. Adolescence is accompanied by emotional and physical changes, most importantly, changes to a teen’s face. During this time, the sinuses continue to grow and enlarge the face and jaw region. Having rhinoplasty surgery too early on could disturb the growth center and disrupt development of the face. That’s why it’s important to visit an experienced and highly qualified surgeon, such as Dr De Silva, who has the training and expertise to assess facial growth and determine the right time to perform rhinoplasty on an adolescent.
Although it is important to consult an expert, generally at about age 18+, at this time the nose and other important facial features are finished developing and there is both maturity and emotional growth that makes it possible to have a successful rhinoplasty surgery. Concerns With Teenage Rhinoplasty In addition to waiting until the right time to have rhinoplasty done, teenagers must also think carefully about the reasons and potential consequences. Following rhinoplasty, there is a two-week healing period that might result in missed school days, and absence from activities like gym and sports for up to two months. If this interferes with your teen’s schedule, he or she might benefit from arranging the rhinoplasty to be performed during the summer months. The mental maturity of a teen is also very important when considering rhinoplasty. If you feel that your teen isn’t emotionally prepared, it’s best to wait. What are the benefits of Teenage Rhinoplasty? If you and your teen are ready to have rhinoplasty, or simply want more information about the procedure, you’ll love learning about the many benefits. Distinguished surgeon Dr De Silva can restore nasal symmetry and target a variety of concerns to boost confidence and self-esteem. His team at the Centre for Advanced Facial Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery in London would be delighted to speak with you about teenage rhinoplasty or other surgical options you may be considering.
