What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, also known as nasal surgery, is a medical procedure that can be performed to improve nasal function or address changes in nasal structure.

It may be considered for reasons such as breathing difficulties, trauma, congenital irregularities, or, in some cases, for aesthetic refinement once facial growth is complete.

What Age Can You Undergo Rhinoplasty?

The Medical Board of Australia advises that individuals should generally be 18 years or older before undergoing rhinoplasty for cosmetic purposes.

This guideline reflects the typical stage when facial growth and bone development have stabilised.

Younger patients may sometimes require nasal surgery earlier if there is a medical indication, such as correcting airway obstruction or structural deformities following trauma.

In such cases, an evaluation by a qualified ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) specialist is essential to determine suitability and timing.

At the other end of the spectrum, adults of various ages — including older patients — may undergo rhinoplasty provided they are medically fit for anaesthesia and surgery.

As nasal cartilage and skin can change with age, these procedures are sometimes discussed for functional reasons, such as improving breathing or addressing changes related to nasal support.

Why the Age Requirement Matters

Performing rhinoplasty before the completion of facial growth can increase the likelihood of changes in nasal shape over time.

For this reason, many surgeons recommend waiting until around 18 years of age for aesthetic rhinoplasty.

This ensures that bone and cartilage growth have stabilised and allows for more predictable long-term results.

Regardless of age, the decision to proceed with rhinoplasty requires careful consideration of physical, emotional and psychological readiness.

A comprehensive consultation with a specialist surgeon helps determine if the procedure is appropriate and whether it aligns with the individual’s medical circumstances.

What to Expect During Assessment

During a consultation, your surgeon will:

• Review your medical history and nasal structure.
• Discuss your breathing, sinus health and any previous nasal injuries.
• Explain possible surgical options (such as open or closed approaches).
• Outline potential risks, recovery time, and expected healing stages.

Rhinoplasty can vary in complexity depending on each individual’s anatomy and the goals discussed during consultation.

Even small adjustments to nasal structure can influence both appearance and function, so a tailored, medically guided plan is essential.

Understanding Risks and Recovery

As with all surgical procedures, rhinoplasty carries potential risks.

These may include:

• Temporary swelling or bruising.
• Infection (rare, but requires proper postoperative care).
• Breathing changes if internal structures are altered.
• Asymmetry or irregular healing.
• Scarring, depending on incision type and skin characteristics.

Your surgeon will explain the risks specific to your anatomy and surgical plan.

Recovery timelines vary, but swelling often takes several months to subside, with subtle refinements continuing over 12–18 months.

Consultation with Dr Shahidi

Dr Shahram Shahidi

BSC(MED)(HON I) MB BS(SYD) FRACS FAAFPS

MED0001167352

Specialist Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose and Throat) – Head and Neck Surgeon

Member, Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

Dr Shahidi is an Australian-trained, FRACS-qualified ENT surgeon with over 20 years of experience in nasal and sinus surgery.

He provides individual assessments for patients considering rhinoplasty to discuss medical suitability, surgical options and potential outcomes.

Disclaimer:

All surgical and invasive procedures carry risks. Individual results vary.

Before proceeding, patients are encouraged to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.