Am I a Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Am I a Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty can be life-changing for the right candidate. Here is how to know if you qualify.

Good candidates for rhinoplasty have realistic expectations and are in good health. Here are the key factors that determine candidacy:

• You may be a good candidate if:
• You are at least 15–16 years old (girls) or 17–18 (boys) — the nose should be fully grown
• You are in good general health
• You do not smoke (or are willing to quit)
• You have realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve
• You are bothered by the appearance of your nose
• You have trouble breathing through your nose

• Medical factors:
• Nasal anatomy — a physical exam determines what changes are possible
• Skin thickness — thick nasal skin limits some refinements
• Previous surgery — revision rhinoplasty is more complex
• Medical conditions — uncontrolled diabetes, bleeding disorders, or autoimmune conditions may affect candidacy

Who May Not Be a Good Candidate

• People seeking perfection (no nose is perfectly symmetrical)
• Those with body dysmorphic disorder (unrealistic body image concerns)
• Heavy smokers (smoking impairs healing)
• People with active nasal infections

Clinical Guidance

Good rhinoplasty candidates are physically healthy, have realistic expectations, have a fully grown nose, and are seeking improvement — not perfection. A consultation with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon will determine if rhinoplasty is right for you.