Thanks for your question regarding what age is appropriate for rhinoplasty.  The age criteria is somewhat variable.  We based our decision on whether the patient has gone through and completed their growth spurt as well as whether they are psychologically mature enough to undergo the operation.  Patient acceptance of recovery time as well as parental support are all important aspects of this decision.  In general female patients are able to undergo the procedure beginning as early as 14 but more commonly at age 15 or 16.  Typically, male patients need to be closer to 16 as they go through their growth phase at a later age.

Ed Buckingham