By Guest Blogger Diana S.

Rhinoplasty – What is the Ideal Age for a nose job?

Rhinoplasty is the second most popular plastic surgery in Australia, according to a study published by RealSelf, the largest community for learning and sharing information on cosmetic surgery. Not only are rhinopasty as well as other surgical procedures common with adults, but the growing trend shows that teenagers are interested in their benefits, as well. Ever since Kylie Jenner sparked a debate about her lip enhancement, the issue of young people going under the knife has been discussed exhaustively.

Is a teenager psychologically mature enough for rhinoplasty?

Even though the reasons why both adults and young adults consider plastic surgery are rather similar (both groups would like to improve their appearance in order to increase self-esteem), teenagers are in the period of their life when they have a strong desire to fit in with others. A teen should show emotional maturity by understanding why they want to have nose surgery: are they doing it for themselves, or for other people in their surroundings?

Australian plastic surgeons are warning teenagers to heed caution before they consider surgery after a Chinese teen reportedly underwent extreme procedures to win over her boyfriend. In addition, the Medical Board of Australia proposed guidelines regarding an operation for young adults in March, 2015. The guidelines proposed in the paper include a three-month cooling-off period and the assessment of patients under the age of 18 by a registered psychologist, or psychiatrist.

Is a teenager physically mature enough for rhinoplasty?

In order for a teenager to be a good candidate for nose job, a plastic surgeon must determine whether s/he has complete facial growth and whether s/he is in good overall health. When it comes to facial features, the nose must reach its adult size before surgery can be taken into consideration. The girls aged 15 and 16 and the boys aged 16 and 17 are considered to be near peak physical growth.
A teen, or an adult may not be a good candidate for rhinoplasty if h/she has serious health issues, including diabetes, high blood pressure, a bleeding disorder, heart disease, or depression. Teenagers who smoke have to quit for 2, or 4 weeks prior to surgery. Any medications, or supplements even vitamins and herbal products a patient takes should be reported to a surgeon.

Does a teenager have realistic expectations?

The consultation appointment is an extremely important part of surgery. It is crucial for a teenager to understand what type of final result s/he can expect. Depending on the facial structure and proportions, individual concerns and desires, a surgeon will make an expert recommendation about the outcome of surgery. The ultimate goal is that the nose looks natural on the face and only surgeon is qualified to determine which changes are appropriate.

Does a teenager understand the practical implications of rhinoplasty?

Nose surgery is usually done as an outpatient procedure, which means that there is no overnight stay. Depending on the specific case, a patient may get local, or general anaesthesia. During the procedure, a surgeon makes cuts within the nostril and sometimes across the base of the nose in order to reshape the cartilage and the inner bone. During a recovery period, a patient wears a nasal splint for the first week. Swelling and bruising are expected lasting about three days. Strenuous activity should be avoided for 3 to 6 weeks after surgery. A teen may miss school during a recovery period, so the best advice is to schedule an operation at school holidays.

Do teenagers and their family know how to find a qualified surgeon?

The first step in finding a surgeon is to discover whether s/he has the Fellows of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) qualifications. In order to become FRACS members, surgeons undergo a basic surgical training for two years after the intern year and then have four to five years of advanced surgical training. After the completion of the advanced training, surgeons take the examination.

At consultations, you should ask a surgeon about his/her training, how many procedures he/she has done, how many procedures are done annually and what results have been. Additionally, always ask about before and after pictures.

Finally, a teen should have a strong support network before, during and after rhinoplasty. The support of family and friends is as important as any other aspect of the procedure.

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.