Too wide, too thin, too humped? When that's all you see in the mirror, should you consider surgery?
With approximately 15,000 nose surgeries performed each year, rhinoplasty is the most common facial procedure in France. In the United States and worldwide, it ranks fifth among all cosmetic surgeries. Developed by an Austrian physician over a century ago, surgical nose reshaping has evolved considerably in recent years. Here's what you need to know before taking the plunge, to ensure you love your new nose.
What does getting a nose job involve?
To refine it, straighten it, correct a slightly drooping or wide tip, flatten a bump... The first step is to make the surgeon understand what you want, by describing the noses you like and those you don't. Previously, plastic surgeons, limited by technique, often gave everyone the same nose: small and upturned, known as "Parisian," or straight, in the Greek profile style, which was ubiquitous in the 60s and 70s. Today, "a successful nose is invisible because it's well integrated into the face," maintains most doctors, so it's different for every woman. "My nose was a real source of insecurity. As a child, I heard all sorts of charming little nicknames," says Véronique, who had surgery at 30. "The first two surgeons I consulted didn't give me much explanation and seemed mainly interested in my check." The third one welcomed me, reassured me, showed me how to reshape my nose so it would look natural and not change me too much, since I'd been living with it for years... It gave me confidence. If I had known, I would have done it sooner.
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