Is Nose Reshaping Surgery Right For Me?

Plastic Surgery in Charleston, SC

Nose reshaping is a good procedure for most men and women (and some teens) who do not like the size or shape of their noses. But is a “nose job” right for you?

The best way to learn whether a nose job is right for you is to have a detailed consultation with plastic surgeon Dr. Brian G. Widenhouse, who can evaluate your candidacy in person. Please schedule a consultation with him at Port City Plastic Surgery in Charleston, South Carolina.

A Good Candidate for a Nose Job

There are many factors that determine whether a person is an ideal candidate for a nose job (or rhinoplasty), including:

• Health
• Age
• Tobacco, alcohol, or drug use
• Realistic expectations for results

All these factors influence the safety of your procedure and the quality of results you can receive, so it is important to be honest about them with Dr. Widenhouse during your consultation.

You should mention any previous surgical complications or anesthesia reactions. In addition, be sure to mention whether you have or might have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which can significantly increase the likelihood of anesthesia-related complications.

The Right Age for Nose Surgery

A nose job should only be performed on a candidate whose face has reached its mature size. For many people, this is about age 13, but for others it can take longer, sometimes into a person's 20s or 30s. Dr. Widenhouse will talk to you about this during your consultation.

For teens considering a nose job, Dr. Widenhouse will talk to the parent or legal guardian to attempt to assess the teen's emotional maturity. In some cases, it may be recommended that nose reshaping surgery be postponed.

Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drug Use

Smoking is discouraged among most plastic surgery patients. It reduces your ability to heal from surgery and can affect the quality and length of your results. Alcohol use can increase your risk of some complications. Many prescription and over-the-counter drugs can also increase your risk of complications, especially bleeding, cardiopulmonary complications, and anesthesia-related complications. Be sure to tell Dr. Widenhouse about all medications and supplements you are currently using, including vitamin and herbal supplements.

Realistic Expectations

A nose job has very high success and patient satisfaction rates, but it is important to enter the procedure with realistic expectations. A nose job alters the shape of your nose, but specific results cannot be guaranteed. Many people experience an improved quality of life as a result of a nose job, but this should not be expected. Whether you get increased self-confidence or other psychological benefits that might improve your general quality of life depends on many factors outside the control of Dr. Widenhouse and even you. Expectations for a nose job procedure should focus on concrete, achievable goals.

If you would like to learn more about nose surgery and whether you are a good candidate or not, please call or email Port City Plastic Surgery in Charleston, South Carolina.