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Teenage Rhinoplasty New York City

Introduction to Teenage Rhinoplasty

Our teenage years are some of the most formative years of our lives, where many people discover how they want to present and express themselves, try on new styles, and explore beauty. At William Lao, MD, we understand that many teenagers struggle with the appearance of various parts of their bodies and faces, including their noses. Dr. William Lao has helped several New York City teenagers unhappy with the appearance of their nose, regarding asymmetry, proportions, shape, function, or another concern, find confidence and happiness with a teenage rhinoplasty.

teenage girl with cute nose

What is a Teenage Rhinoplasty?

Teenage rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reshape, resize, or restructure the nose for adolescent patients whose noses are fully or nearly fully grown. It can also help with functional issues and improve overall facial harmony. This procedure differs from adult rhinoplasty because it takes into account the early stages of maturity, growth, and development of the nose.

Every nose is completely unique. So, every teenage rhinoplasty is, too. Dr. Lao tailors each procedure to fit the individual needs, nasal and facial structure, and preferences of the patient. This ensures that the results are long-lasting and meet the patient’s expectations and goals.

Parents or guardians must strongly support their child’s decision to undergo this procedure, as patients are under the age of 18.

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What Are the Benefits of a Teenage Rhinoplasty?

A teenage rhinoplasty in New York City can offer tremendous benefits for the patient, including:

  • Improved symmetry and facial balance
  • Harmony across the facial features
  • Improved breathing
  • Boost in confidence
  • Refined nose that aligns with the aesthetic goals of the patient
  • Long-lasting results that age well
  • Subtle, natural-looking results
  • Correction of deformities or injuries

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Who Are the Best Candidates for a Teenage Rhinoplasty?

Candidates for a teenage rhinoplasty in New York City should meet a variety of criteria that all contribute toward being an ideal choice. These candidates should:

  • Be nearly or fully complete with the majority of their facial and nasal development
  • Have cosmetic concerns, such as bumps, asymmetry, a pinched appearance, or a drooping tip
  • Have functional issues, such as a deviated septum
  • Have emotional maturity, expectations, and understand the risks
  • Have full support from the parents or guardians

Dr. Lao will discuss the procedure with both the teenage patient and the family to ensure everyone is on the same page and fully understands how the procedure will impact the patient’s life. Patients who are still developing, growing, or are uncertain about their goals should wait until they know what they want to ensure their results are long-lasting throughout their lives.

How to Begin Your Teenage Rhinoplasty Journey

Beginning your teenage rhinoplasty in New York City starts with a private consultation at our office in New York City. During this initial appointment, the patient and a parent or guardian will meet Dr. Lao, who will:

1. Listen to the patient’s goals
2. Perform a physical examination of their nose
3. Review their medical history
4. Provide a recommendation based on his findings

You may ask questions at any point during the consultation to ensure you feel comfortable, informed, and confident in your decision. Dr. Lao always aims to be completely transparent in his recommendations, as this ensures patient safety and clarity.

If the patient, parent, and Dr. Lao agree that a teenage rhinoplasty is the best next step, Dr. Lao will provide a detailed surgical plan outlining pre- and post-operative instructions, a results timeline, and an estimated quote.

What to Expect on the Day of Teenage Rhinoplasty Surgery

We perform all of our teenage rhinoplasty surgeries at our surgical facility in New York City. Our patients should arrive at least one hour early to ensure they have time to check in. The surgery will take place under general anesthesia, so the patient will need to be driven by a ride share, taxi, or parent’s car.

Dr. Lao may use one of a couple of different techniques for the surgery, including an open or closed teenage rhinoplasty approach. As he conducts the surgery, he will make structural adjustments to meet the patient’s aesthetic goals, including refining the nasal tip, smoothing a dorsal hump, straightening the nasal bridge, or improving internal breathing pathways. Throughout the surgery, Dr. Lao uses his expert precision to sculpt natural-looking results that will heal and integrate with the rest of the face.

When the surgery is complete, the patient will be monitored in a recovery room until ready to be taken home. The patient should take the remainder of the day off and prioritize rest.

Combining My Teenage Rhinoplasty with Other Procedures

Combining other procedures with rhinoplasty is a popular option for adults, but teenage rhinoplasty is a little different. We want to provide a safe experience for the patient with the most predictable healing, so we usually perform the rhinoplasty alone. If the patient has breathing issues, we can perform that procedure as well. This will be discussed in further detail during the consultation with Dr. Lao.

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Brunette woman with perfect lips and skin posing

Teenage Rhinoplasty Recovery

When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Lao, teenage rhinoplasty has a smooth, manageable recovery. The first few days to a week will be the most uncomfortable, as the patient will have some mild swelling, congestion, and bruising around the eyes. Dr. Lao will provide a nasal splint to secure the nose.

Some important steps you will need to follow as you recover include:

  • Keep the head elevated and take plenty of rest
  • Do not engage in strenuous activities or sports for at least a few weeks to a month
  • Gently clean the nose and avoid applying pressure
  • Do not blow your nose for the first week
  • Drink plenty of water
 

Attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Lao at our New York City office, so he can monitor your recovery, remove the splint, and update you on the progress. He will prescribe pain medication to alleviate the discomfort.

How Much Does a Teenage Rhinoplasty Cost in New York City, NY?

The cost of a teenage rhinoplasty in New York City usually looks different for each patient. The cost is influenced by several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, whether functional concerns are addressed, the surgical technique used, the amount of anesthesia required, and the provider’s experience. It typically ranges from 15k to 30k in New York City. Find out how much a rhinoplasty at William Lao, MD, in New York City will cost when you schedule a consultation.

Why Choose Dr. Lao?

Our founder and Board Certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Lao, proudly serves patients across New York City to help them achieve their aesthetic goals and feel beautiful on the inside and outside. His patient-centered approach helps patients feel welcomed and understood, allowing them to build trust and rapport throughout their experience. Dr. Lao never pressures his patients to choose a procedure they are not comfortable with, especially in early cosmetic procedure like this, where the patient is a teenager.

Dr. Lao has mastered a wide range of surgical techniques and is affiliated with the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS).

FAQs

Is a Teenage Rhinoplasty Painful?

Patients typically describe their teenage rhinoplasty as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. During the procedure, the patient will be under general anesthesia, so they won’t feel any pain or have any memory of the surgery. The first week will be the most challenging, yet Dr. Lao prescribes pain medication to ease the discomfort. Most patients just need mild pain medication like Acetaminophen (Tylenol). We give the patient and family detailed recovery instructions to help make the recovery smoother, and we are always happy to answer any questions that come up during the recovery.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Patients can expect to attend a handful of appointments over the course of several months. All patients must begin with a consultation with a parent or guardian present. Next, the patient will attend the surgery, followed by postoperative appointments during which Dr. Lao will monitor recovery and healing.

How Long Until I See Results?

Patients typically begin to notice initial improvements about one week after the surgery, when Dr. Lao removes the splint. The nose will be swollen and might be bruised, which will conceal the results until it subsides. The swelling and bruising will take a few weeks to subside to a point that appears normal, but the full results of the procedure won’t be complete until approximately one year after the surgery.

How Soon Can I Travel After Teenage Rhinoplasty?

Dr. Lao recommends that patients wait at least 1-2 weeks before traveling after their teenage rhinoplasty. This gives the body plenty of time to heal and lowers the risk of bleeding and increased swelling. Cabin pressure on planes can worsen pain from sinus congestion.

What Are the Risks Associated with a Teenage Rhinoplasty?

Teenage rhinoplasty is a safe procedure when performed by a talented, Board Certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Lao, who takes every precaution to ensure the safety and well-being of his New York City patients. Some risks associated with teenage rhinoplasty include:
  • Temporary swelling or bruising
  • Changes in sensation in the nose
  • Mild bleeding
  • Difficulty with breathing during the recovery
  • Need for revision surgery if improper healing occurs
  • Long-term structural changes
  • Infection
  • Unsatisfactory results
  • Scarring
  • Nose bleeds

Schedule Your Consultation

If teenage rhinoplasty in New York City interests you or your teenager, you may schedule a consultation with Dr. Lao to learn more about the procedure, cost, and qualifications. We will be more than happy to answer any questions along the way, so you feel comfortable and confident in your decision.

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Real patients, real results! Check out our before and after photo gallery and peruse through different gallery options of surgical and non-surgical patients!

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Out-of-town patients

Dr. Lao has provided surgery for patients from almost every continent in the world. With such a wide range, patients frequently ask about travel arrangements for surgery.

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Patient Resources

We’re here to help, with a number of patient resources designed to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Read through the materials below, and don’t hesitate to reach out and set up your consultation to learn more about what we can do for you.

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