How Will I Know If A Nose Job Is Right For Me?

Am I a good candidate for a rhinoplasty? Portland’s The Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery knows that this is a question on the mind of many individuals who are self-conscious about the shape or appearance of their nose, or those who want to improve the symmetry and balance of their face.

A nose job or rhinoplasty enhances the proportions of the nose to improve overall facial harmony. Although some decide to have rhinoplasty to address breathing difficulties, a nose job is often an elective procedure that is done for aesthetic refinements, so it will only be needed if the patient desires it. The decision to undergo rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nose job, is a significant and personal choice. Whether motivated by cosmetic concerns or functional issues, potential candidates must carefully evaluate their motivations, expectations, and overall health to determine if rhinoplasty is the right option for them.

See below to find out more about what would make you a good candidate for this type of cosmetic surgery. 

Cosmetic Concerns

According to board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kathleen Waldorf, “Dissatisfaction with the size, shape, or symmetry of the nose is a common reason individuals consider rhinoplasty. People often decide to undergo rhinoplasty if there are one or more physical features of their nose that they’re dissatisfied with or because they’re experiencing other aesthetic or functional issues due to injury or trauma. They may consider some features of their nose to be undesirable. Good candidates are those seeking improvement rather than perfection.” 

Realistic expectations and a desire to enhance natural features are crucial for a successful outcome. It’s important to be aware of the types of concerns or irregularities that can be improved with a nose job. Individuals who have extremely crooked noses or a crooked septum that makes the nose appear off center, an overly projecting nose, a deformed nose, a bump or dip on the nose bridge, a wide nose, the need for a nasal tip correction due to a thick or bulbous nasal tip or an asymmetric, overly projecting nose tip or drooping nose tip, nostrils that are overly wide or large or turn upwards, a nose that is proportionately too large or small for their face, or other minor nasal problems or deformities could benefit from a nose job. The surgery can also enhance a nose that has an angle that seems “off” in relation to the forehead or upper lip. 

Realistic Expectations

Candidates should have realistic expectations regarding the results of rhinoplasty. A skilled surgeon can discuss potential outcomes during consultations. However, it’s crucial for candidates to understand that the procedure can enhance natural features but are not intended to achieve perfection. Clear communication and alignment of expectations with the surgeon are essential.

Who Is Not a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Patients are assessed on a case-by-case basis to determine whether they would be a good candidate. Rhinoplasty isn’t always the best approach for everyone. If you are not healthy enough to have surgery—due to cardiac or pulmonary health concerns, for example—going under anesthesia may be too much of a risk. A nose job typically is not recommended for people who are under the age of 18. Furthermore, anyone who is not physically, mentally, or psychologically ready for rhinoplasty surgery would not be a suitable candidate for any form of rhinoplasty. A nose job is designed to help make the nose blend more seamlessly with the rest of your facial features, with a focus on enhancing the contours of the nose, but patients should remember that there are certain things this procedure cannot fix. It won’t be able to alter the basic structure of your nose, “re-create” another person’s nose for you, improve the quality of the skin itself, or affect how your nose will change with age. Sometimes it may not be possible to completely straighten a nose that has had severe damage with just one surgery. 

Still unsure whether you would be a good candidate for rhinoplasty? Contact Portland, OR’s The Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery to set up a consultation so that you can find out whether this is the best option for you. Call 503-882-0124 or submit a contact form to request an appointment.