Some teens put pressure on their parents to not only discuss rhinoplasty but make an appointment with a facial plastic surgeon for a consultation. Rhinoplasty is the most frequently requested procedure among teenage patients. However, there is some controversy about teenage rhinoplasty surgery.
Selecting the right surgeon
Selecting the right surgeon is vitally important when it comes to teenage patients. Dr. Peter Abramson is an experienced surgeon who believes a teenager can be an excellent candidate for rhinoplasty. Examinations of the septum, facial bones, and cartilage help him make the decision about whether the teen’s bones are finished growing. Typically teens 15-19 are ready for surgery. It’s important to make careful recommendations so there will be no surgical revision needed.
Candidates for Rhinoplasty
Patients seeking rhinoplasty surgery come to see Dr. Peter Abramson for a variety of reasons.
- Artificial or unnatural nasal appearance
- Asymmetry in the tip, upper third or middle third of the nose
- Nose is not in balance with the rest of the face
- Deviated Septum
- Persistent nasal hump
- Saddle nose or over-reduced bridge
- Over-rotated or under-rotated tip
- Crooked tip or crooked nose
- Breathing problems
Testing for readiness
After careful examination, Dr. Abramson interviews each patient and focuses on his/her motives for wanting surgery. Sometimes young adults are brutally teased by peers, and that can cause emotional damage. Other teens have breathing problems either from injury or congenital issues. Dr. Abramson patiently answers all the family’s questions and concerns. It’s important the teen is psychologically mature enough and physically strong enough to undergo rhinoplasty.
Making an informed decision
Before going ahead with surgery, Dr. Abramson makes sure the patient has realistic expectations for post-surgery appearance. He also makes sure the patient and his family understand the risks and benefits of the surgery. In the end, the teen patient and his/her family make an informed decision about whether or not to go ahead with surgery.
Timing a teen rhinoplasty surgery
Normal school vacation times are perfect for scheduling rhinoplasty. There is a splint put in place after surgery that needs to remain in place for approximately a week. Students who are involved in contact sports will have to understand and accept limitations after surgery. There needs to be a safe post-surgery healing period.
Procedure Preparation
Prior to a rhinoplasty procedure, Dr. Abramson recommends that patients adhere to standard pre-op guidelines to allow for patient safety and maximum post-op results:
- Eat a healthy diet rich in nutrients.
- DO NOT smoke in the weeks surrounding the procedure.
- DO NOT take pain medication containing aspirin or ibuprofen.
- Provide Dr. Abramson with a list of any medications that are taken regularly.
- DO NOT eat or drink after midnight the night before the procedure.
- DO NOT wear makeup or contact lenses to surgery.
- Patients must have a friend or relative drive them to and from the procedure.
Aftercare and Recovery
Because rhinoplasty is considered to be an outpatient procedure, patients can begin the recovery process in the comfort of their own home the same day as surgery. After the procedure, soft packing is inserted into each nostril and an adhesive tape splint is applied to the nose. Dr. Abramson will remove the dressing and packing after 5-6 days following surgery. If pain is present, it can easily be controlled with over-the-counter medication. Discoloration and bruising is a normal part of the recovery process and generally fades within seven days. To help the recovery process, Dr. Abramson suggests:
- Following the procedure, remain out of bed in an upright position to decrease swelling and accelerate healing.
- No strenuous activities for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Lasting, positive effects
A teen’s skin is flexible and resilient. The skin heals quickly and smoothly because of its youthful attributes. Rhinoplasty, which balances the facial features, can positively impact a teen’s self-confidence and quality of life. High school is hard enough without having to deal with a large, poorly proportioned nose or breathing difficulties.
Consulting with Dr. Abramson
Make an appointment to talk with Dr. Abramson about rhinoplasty for your teenager. Dr. Abramson is a highly-skilled, experienced surgeon who works well with teens. He has satisfied patients from all over the Southeast and locally from Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Sugar Hill, Alpharetta, Milton, Cumming, and Roswell.
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