Who Is a Good Rhinoplasty Candidate?

Rhinoplasty a cosmetic surgery in which the nose is reshaped to a more appealing form. Furthermore, rhinoplasty may also be considered a reconstructive procedure in the event that there is a malformation of the nose or nasal passageway that causes a dire medical issue. The procedure is considered to be the second most popular cosmetic surgery in the world just behind a breast augmentation.

When it comes to the rhinoplasty surgery there is a small list of what makes a good candidate for this cosmetic surgery. Basically it comes down to whether the nose that you have had since you were born is what you want. Does the nose's structure or shape cause you to be self-conscious? Sometimes even with the most slightest of changes to the look of the nose can remedy this issue. Perhaps you have a ridge on the top of your nose that looks like it has been broken before. Regardless of the reasons though if you are unhappy with the nose you have then chances are that you make a good candidate for rhinoplasty.

Another important aspect of what makes a good rhinoplasty candidate has to do with the individual's expectations from the surgery. As long as you are looking for an improvement you are a good candidate but in the event that you are looking for a perfect nose then you are not. Over expectations lead to disastrous outcomes from any plastic surgery and with the nose being so prominently displayed for all to see, these over expectations can be compounded.

You also need to make sure that you are old enough for the procedure. In general this age is going to be between 14 and 18 years old and will vary from surgeon to surgeon. The general consensus is that unless it is a medical necessity that you have to wait until your nose has finished developing which in females is around 14 to 16 years of age and for males it is as late as their 20's.

Remember that even the slightest changes to the nose, due to its prominence on the face it may make the rest of the face seem out of place so make sure that you listen to the surgeon and what his or her suggestions are regarding your expected look. These surgeons are experienced in what they do and know if something may require that other parts of the face to be made to match the new nose.

By Dr. Jim Greene