Good candidates for rhinoplasty are adults aged 18 or over whose nose has finished growing, who are in good general health, do not smoke or are willing to stop, and have a clear, personal reason for wanting a change with realistic expectations. People with uncontrolled medical conditions, a recent nasal injury that has not healed, or concerns driven by distress that surgery is unlikely to resolve may be advised to wait or consider other options.
Signs you may be suitable
- Age: 18 or over, with facial growth complete. Cosmetic surgery is only offered to adults.
- A specific concern: such as a hump, a crooked bridge, a wide or drooping tip, or nostril asymmetry.
- Good health: no uncontrolled heart, lung, bleeding or immune conditions.
- Non-smoker: or willing to stop all nicotine products well before and after surgery.
- Realistic expectations: wanting improvement and balance rather than a copy of someone else’s nose.
- Time to recover: able to take one to two weeks away from work and avoid contact sport for longer.
Health factors that matter
Mr Nassab will ask about your general health, medicines and supplements. Conditions that affect bleeding or healing, such as clotting disorders or poorly controlled diabetes, need to be stable before surgery. Blood-thinning medicines and some herbal supplements may need to be paused, but only on medical advice. Allergies, sinus problems and nasal spray use are relevant because they affect the lining of the nose. Previous nasal surgery or injury changes the planning. Smoking and vaping reduce blood flow to healing tissues and increase the risk of complications, so stopping is strongly advised. Recreational drug use involving the nose is a reason not to operate, because it damages the septum and lining.
Your nose and skin type
The thickness of your skin affects what can be achieved. Thin skin shows fine detail but also any small irregularity. Thick, oily skin can limit how defined the tip looks and prolongs swelling. The strength of your cartilage, the position of your septum, and how your nose relates to your chin and forehead also shape the plan. In some people, a small chin makes the nose appear larger, and this will be pointed out so you can consider the whole profile.
Motivation and expectations
The best outcomes come when the decision is your own, made without pressure from a partner, friends or social media, and when you understand what is realistic. Filtered images and selfie cameras distort the nose, so they are not a reliable guide. If you find yourself preoccupied with your appearance for hours each day, repeatedly checking mirrors or avoiding social situations, or feel that no surgeon has understood the problem, you may be experiencing body dysmorphic disorder. In that case, surgery is unlikely to help, and speaking to your GP is a better first step. Mr Nassab will discuss this sensitively if it arises.
When to wait
It is sensible to delay rhinoplasty if you have had a nasal injury in the last few months, are recovering from other surgery, are pregnant or planning pregnancy soon, have an active skin or sinus infection, or are going through a major life upheaval. Teenagers who dislike their nose should wait until adulthood, when the nose has finished growing and the decision can be made with maturity. Allow at least a year after any previous rhinoplasty before considering revision.
Alternatives to surgery
Not everyone needs an operation. Dermal filler can camouflage a small hump or a minor dip for a limited time, though it cannot reduce size or improve breathing; see surgical vs non-surgical rhinoplasty. If breathing is the main issue, a septoplasty or medical treatment through your GP or an ENT specialist may be appropriate. Some people decide, after a thorough consultation, that they are happier keeping their nose.
Next steps
A consultation is the only way to confirm whether rhinoplasty is right for you. Rhinoplasty costs from £8,950 and the £150 consultation fee is separate. A second consultation is encouraged before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum age for rhinoplasty?
Cosmetic rhinoplasty is only offered to adults aged 18 and over, once the nose has finished growing.
Is there an upper age limit?
There is no fixed upper age limit. Suitability depends on general health, skin quality and goals rather than age alone.
Can smokers have rhinoplasty?
Smoking increases the risk of poor healing and infection. You will be asked to stop all nicotine products for several weeks before and after surgery.
Is it possible to be turned down for rhinoplasty?
Yes. If surgery is unlikely to meet your goals, or health or psychological factors make it unsafe, Mr Nassab will explain why and discuss alternatives.
