For many teenagers, the nose is more than just a facial feature—it can feel like a focal point of insecurity. Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping surgery, has become increasingly common among teens seeking greater facial harmony or correction of structural issues. But when it comes to cosmetic procedures for adolescents, both teens and their parents have a lot to consider.
Dr. David Cangello, a highly experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City, is a member of the Rhinoplasty Society and well-known for his expertise in rhinoplasty, as well as for guiding teens and their families through this deeply personal decision with care, transparency, and exceptional surgical skill. With a meticulous approach to achieving natural-looking results, Dr. Cangello understands the unique anatomical and emotional considerations that come with performing rhinoplasty on younger patients.
Here’s what families should know before moving forward with teenage rhinoplasty.
Why Do Teens Choose Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is one of the most commonly chosen cosmetic surgeries among teenagers.1 There are two primary motivations behind teenage rhinoplasty: aesthetics and function. Some teens are bothered by a hump on the bridge of the nose, a droopy and/or bulbous nasal tip, or asymmetry. Others seek surgery to improve breathing due to a deviated septum or past injury.
Importantly, the desire for surgery should come from the teen—not from peer pressure or parental suggestion. A reputable plastic surgeon will carefully evaluate the teen’s reasons for pursuing rhinoplasty and ensure they have realistic expectations.
Timing Is Critical
Physical maturity is a key factor in determining whether a teen is a candidate for rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty for teens can be more complex and often involves adapting surgical techniques to suit their developing facial structure.2 Because the nose continues to develop throughout adolescence, performing surgery too early can interfere with natural growth and lead to complications.
As a general guideline:3
- Girls are typically at least 15 years old.
- Boys are typically ready a year or two later, around age 16.
That said, every patient is unique, and these age ranges are general estimates, not fixed rules. In some cases, surgery may be appropriate earlier or later, depending on when skeletal maturity is reached. An experienced surgeon will evaluate this carefully through physical examination and, if needed, imaging studies to determine whether it’s the right time for surgery.4
Emotional Readiness Matters, Too
Teenage years are marked by emotional growth and identity development. It’s essential that teens seeking rhinoplasty are emotionally mature enough to understand the risks, recovery process, and results.
Parents should look for signs that their teen is motivated by personal reasons and not impulsive or driven by social media trends. Open, honest conversations can help determine whether the teen is approaching surgery with a healthy mindset.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Teenage rhinoplasty should only be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon with extensive experience in both cosmetic and functional nasal surgery. Surgeons with a deep understanding of adolescent facial anatomy can achieve natural-looking outcomes that preserve nasal function and suit the teen’s overall facial features.
Look for a surgeon who has demonstrated dedication to the field of Rhinoplasty and is a member of The Rhinoplasty Society, as well as:
- Takes time to answer questions
- Offers before-and-after galleries with long-term results
- Encourages parental involvement
- Emphasizes safety and realistic goals
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery from rhinoplasty takes time and patience. Teens typically return to school within 7–10 days, but should avoid contact sports or vigorous activity for several weeks. Minor residual swelling can persist for a few months, and the final result may take up to a year to fully refine.
Parents play an important role in the healing process by providing emotional support, managing post-operative care, and reinforcing the importance of following all aftercare instructions.
A Shared Decision
Rhinoplasty can be a positive, confidence-boosting experience for the right teen, but it should never be rushed. Parents and teens should take time to research, ask questions, and reflect on the motivations behind surgery.
If a teen feels self-conscious about their nose and is emotionally and physically ready, rhinoplasty may offer a lasting solution. However, the goal should always be self-acceptance, not perfection.
Learn More About Teenage Rhinoplasty
When done for the right reasons, at the right time, and by the right hands, teenage rhinoplasty can help young patients feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. To determine if rhinoplasty is right for your teen, contact us to schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Cangello in New York City (NYC).
Sources:
1 World Journal of Plastic Surgery. Teenage Rhinoplasty. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5890372/. Accessed May 26, 2025.
2 World Journal of Plastic Surgery. Teenage Rhinoplasty. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5890372/. Accessed May 26, 2025.
3 Archives of otolaryngology–head & neck surgery.Nasal growth and maturation age in adolescents: a systematic review. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19075124/. Accessed May 26, 2025.
4 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Briefing Paper: Plastic Surgery for Teenagers. Available at: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/briefing-papers/briefing-paper-plastic-surgery-for-teenagers#. Accessed May 26, 2025.