Rhinoplasty, perhaps better known as a nose job, is one of the most performed plastic surgeries in the U.S. due to its ability to improve the patient’s confidence as well as the appearance of his or her face. Because of the superior surgical skills of our two Double Board-Certified plastic surgeons — Dr. Bryan Brandon and Dr. Richard Gangnes — the team at Facial Aesthetic Concepts meets with a lot of patients who want to learn more about rhinoplasty. Here’s what we look for in a good candidate for the procedure:
Setting Realistic Expectations
The most important factor our surgeons look for when attempting to determine whether someone is a suitable candidate for rhinoplasty is reasonable expectations. A nose job can make significant changes, but it is not magic. Those who understand the types of cosmetic enhancements and functional improvements rhinoplasty can (and cannot) make are more likely to be happy with their results. Dr. Brandon and Dr. Gangnes are candid during a consultation to make sure appropriate expectations are set from the start.
Finished with Puberty
Rhinoplasty is popular among teenage patients, but it should only be performed once the face and nose have stopped growing significantly. In most patients, 16 is a safe age to have rhinoplasty, but if puberty is still occurring, then your surgeon may suggest you wait until that hormone-driven period is complete.
Being in Good Health
Rhinoplasty is usually deemed an elective surgery, which means it should only be performed if the patient is in good enough health to undergo an operation. Although rhinoplasty is considered a very safe procedure, any surgery carries some inherent risks and potential complications. That may make it wise to postpone rhinoplasty until you are in better health. Your surgeon can confirm that you are healthy enough for surgery during a consultation.
Not Smoking
Plastic surgery patients (those seeking rhinoplasty and other face, body and breast procedures) should not be smokers, the reason being is that the nicotine found in cigarettes and vapes makes your blood vessels smaller, which alters the flow of blood. Since these vessels play a critical role in the healing process, using nicotine may increase your risk for complications, extend the recovery process and increase the amount of discomfort you experience following surgery. If you are currently a smoker but want to have rhinoplasty, the solution is simple: quit. Your overall health will thank you!
Make an Appointment
If you are a non-smoker in good health who wants to make reasonable changes to the appearance of your nose, chances are that you will be a good candidate for rhinoplasty. To discuss the procedure in more detail with one of our star plastic surgeons, please call (949) 276-4141 to reach our San Clemente, Aliso Viejo or Rancho Santa Margarita offices.