Rhinoplasty has been in the news this week after model Bella Hadid revealed that she had regretted having nose reshaping surgery at the age of just 14.
However, this is not just about whether it’s appropriate to have cosmetic surgery at such a young age. This story also raises issues about the permanence of surgical procedures, especially when there is a non-surgical option available.
Surgical vs Non-Surgical Nose Job
Cosmetic surgery such as the nose job is irreversible and Bella’s experience highlights that there is little scope for future adjustment after having such a major procedure. Bella, who is now 25, told US Vogue:
“I wish I had kept the nose of my ancestors, I think I would have grown into it.”
The rhinoplasty is the most popular surgical procedure in the UK for men, according to data from BAAPS, the British Association of Plastic Surgeons – and the 6th most popular procedure for female patients.
Yet nose reshaping surgery is quite an invasive procedure as it involves cutting away cartilage and sometimes bone as well in order to remove bumps and create a straighter profile. The very nature of the procedure means that it cannot be reversed in the future. If you’re not happy with the result, the options are to either have another nose job or to have non-surgical rhinoplasty to adjust the profile of the nose with dermal fillers.
So actually, there’s a very compelling reason to avoid surgery altogether when it comes to the nose and try dermal fillers in the first place.
Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty
The non-surgical nose job can offer significant improvements to the profile and appearance of the nose without the cost, risk or permanence of surgery. Nose reshaping with dermal fillers can improve the shape and profile surprisingly quickly and easily yet the results are temporary. When the fillers wear off (after 12-18 months), the procedure can be repeated. It can also be adapted or adjusted over time as the facial structures change with age. Non-surgical rhinoplasty is even reversible if required.
Using advanced dermal fillers, the procedure focuses on altering the shape of the nose, addressing cosmetic deformities and defects which are either the natural shape or acquired through injury; including:
- Dips and depressions
- Humps and bumps
- Nose tip shape and projection
- Thin nose
- Asymmetry
- Balance within the overall facial profile
Model Bella Hadid’s experience highlights the appeal of a non-surgical, non-permanent route.
Non-surgical rhinoplasty is purely a cosmetic procedure, so it cannot address functional issues like breathing or snoring. However, the majority of patients just want to look better and feel more confident about the shape and size of their nose. For these patients, a non-surgical route is a very attractive alternative to surgery.
Cosmetic Surgery/Treatment on Under 18s
The other aspect of her story that has caused great concern is the fact that her nose job was carried out at such a young age. At 14, her body would not have even been fully formed and it would have continued to grow and change even after the surgical procedure was carried out. At 14, teenagers’ bodies are going through puberty, which according to the NHS starts at average age of 11 for girls and 12 for boys, lasting around 4 years altogether.
In the UK, it is now illegal to have dermal fillers and other injectable non-surgical treatments before the age of 18, thanks to the Botulinum Toxin and Cosmetic Fillers (Children) Act.
Surgery is an even bigger commitment and the General Medical Council (GMC) advises that under 18s must only undergo surgery if it is in the patient’s best interests, for example, if they are being bullied at school.
Mulberry House Clinic
Established 2003
Mulberry House Clinic has an excellent reputation in the Northampton area as an independent, doctor-led practice with vast experience of the industry. Cosmetic skin treatments are carried out by Dr John Tanqueray, who works closely with leading manufacturers to remain at the forefront of the medical aesthetics.
A private consultation is the starting point for all patients in order to facilitate a full discussion about the desired results as well as detailed facial and skin assessment. Find out more about first consultation.
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please complete our contact form, call 01604 702630 or email: info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
