Is Rhinoplasty “Worth It?” Here’s How to Know

Choosing to undergo surgery is never a decision to take lightly, and that’s especially the case when it comes to rhinoplasty. Our Washington, DC, surgeons understand that hesitancy; the nose is the central feature of your face, and it influences your entire appearance. If you’re unhappy with your nose, you may be debating whether rhinoplasty would be “worth it.” Our goal is to have the nose fit the patient’s face, never a cookie cutter nose. 

When choosing plastic surgery, we want our patients to be completely sure about their decision. During the initial consultation, we can do computer imaging to help give the patient some idea of the final outcome. Here are a few signs that rhinoplasty may help improve your life. 

You find the appearance of your nose distracting.

The goal of plastic surgery is to help you feel comfortable and confident in your body. If you feel self-conscious each time you look in the mirror, it may be time to consider rhinoplasty. Ideally, you want your facial features to be in harmony with each other and look properly proportioned with your eyes and lips. If your unhappiness with your nose is holding you back, rhinoplasty can correct these problems and fix any distractions that cause self-doubt. 

You struggle with breathing problems. 

Rhinoplasty isn’t always just for aesthetics. There are many medical reasons you may benefit from the procedure. Surgery can correct problems such as a deviated septum or reduce enlarged turbinates caused by chronic allergies. Breathing is obviously an important health issue, and you deserve to feel comfortable with your ability to breathe while doing day-to-day tasks. If you suffer from nasal congestion, mouth breathing, dry mouth, or a reduced sense of smell, surgery may help. 

Your facial bones have stopped growing.

There is no strict upper age limit when it comes to rhinoplasty, but there is a lower limit most surgeons abide by. For a successful rhinoplasty, your facial bones must have stopped growing. This usually happens around 16 years old. Teens can technically have rhinoplasty, but more commonly, we see patients at 18-21 years old or older. This is the best way to guarantee your results won’t later shift or change, and you can enjoy your new look for years to come.

You have realistic expectations.

Plastic surgery can enhance various parts of the body, but surgery can’t completely change how you look or transform you into a different person. It’s important to form a healthy mindset around rhinoplasty surgery and have realistic expectations about the procedure. Treatment may not give you the nose of a specific model or actor, but it can complement your natural attractiveness and help you look like the best version of yourself. 

If you’re interested in discussing whether rhinoplasty is the best option for you with a plastic surgeon in Washington, DC, please request a consultation online. You can also contact our practice offices by phone at (703) 560-2850 (Annandale, VA) or (301) 652-7700 (Chevy Chase, MD).