As a facial plastic surgeon, a question often asked is, “When is the best time to get rhinoplasty/a nose job?”
People of all ages are often asking this as they are curious about whether or not they’re old enough, or too old, to make changes to their nose. Even if they have thought about these changes their whole life, they are still worried. Luckily, when it comes to rhinoplasty, there are very few age limits.
In this piece, we will discuss how rhinoplasty changes for people of all different ages and what to know as you are deciding whether or not this surgery is for you.
What Is the Best Age to Get a Rhinoplasty?
Perhaps the most popular age range for rhinoplasty is between 20 and 29. In 2020 alone, 31% of all rhinoplasties were performed on people in this age range. On top of this statistic, rhinoplasty is also the most popular cosmetic procedure for people under 19.
However, the “best” age to get a rhinoplasty is different for every single person. Once one has completed their midfacial growth, nose surgery is safe and effective. In general, the nose reaches maturity in females around 13 years and males around 15 years.
After that, there isn’t any perfect or imperfect time… the best time for you is whenever you are ready.
If I Get a Rhinoplasty When I’m Young, Will My Nose Change as I Get Older?
Rhinoplasty results actually hold up very well as time goes by. Once all of the swelling has subsided, which usually takes around a year, your results will stabilize and continue to look the same for many years to come. Because no procedure can stop the aging process altogether, your nose may experience natural changes as you age.
This is because the cartilage and soft tissue that supports your nose will often weaken as time goes by. You may also notice drooping and widening. While these changes are noticeable on some, they may not be noticeable at all on others.
How Are Rhinoplasties Performed Differently for Older vs. Younger People?
Essentially rhinoplasties are performed the same way for both younger and older people. Knowing age-related growth changes is useful in planning the time of aesthetic or reconstructive nose surgery. Depending on your age, the focus of change is different.
Rhinoplasty for younger people includes:
- Reducing nasal humps
- Shortening an overly long nose
- Correcting asymmetry (also considered revision rhinoplasty)
- Narrowing or straightening the nasal bridge
Rhinoplasty for older people includes:
- Lifting a dropping tip
- Correcting breathing issues caused by weakening cartilage
- Decreasing the size of the nose
- Narrowing a bulbous tip
If you are ready to go ahead with your rhinoplasty, contact Dr. Edween and her team today to get started!
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