Questions and Answers

Hi, Dr. Naderi I have been considering rhinoplasty for a while now, but I am afraid my family will think I am being superficial. Yet, I am unhappy with my nose I think it draws attention away from my other features, and it does not fit my face. I don't want to take away from my ethnicity, being as I am African-american, but still I feel my family will think the choice is truly disgraceful. Funny, I asked my mother how she would feel about it, and she stated I was stupid for even thinking about it. I have most of the money to pay for it, and I have researched your website & read all about it. And to let you know, I know you will be the best doctor to perform the procedure. But, my only problem is that I will feel guilty afterward because of what my family may think of me. So, basically I don't know how to go about it, I would feel better about myself but my family does not seem to understand that.

Posted on January 06, 2010 12:01 PM in General

Answer

Hi Ashley,

Thanks for posting the question. Many many women as well as men go through the same dilemma you are now going through.

It is difficult deciding to go through elective cosmetic surgery - Rhinoplasty. Its even tougher when you don't have your family's support.

Throughout the years I have seen parents that belittle their children for wanting Rhinoplasty but I have seen a great number of moms and dads that make their children feel insecure about their appearance, pushing them towards a Rhinoplasty. Both cases are undesirable. The best situation is for you to make the decision yourself, after doing your homework and research while having the support and guidance of your parents. But that is not your case nor many other patients seeking Rhinoplasty.

From experience, the best way to deal with this is to involve them in the decision. Make sure they know you are mature and have thought about this long and hard. I often see parents or wives or husbands change their harsh stance and become supportive once they come to the consultation and see the computer imaging and see that the "after" version of you still looks natural and you will still be "you," only more balanced and in harmony.

Make sure they don't think you expect them to pay for it. Make sure they don't take this as an insult to them and their genetics and their appearance.

But if after all your effort, they are still against it, then you have to make the decision of whether to honor their wishes or proceed with your wishes.

I wish you luck.

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