While large numbers of cosmetic procedures are performed in the United States, including invasive surgeries, there are some smaller countries that have an unlikely number as well. The Islamic Republic of Iran is known for many things including being the world’s oldest civilization, having large amounts of natural gas and petroleum reserves and being one of the most mountanious countries in the world. With a population of over 75 million, there is a surprising number of cosmetic procedures performed. According to a recent report in the Tehran newspaper Etemad, Iran has the highest rate of rhinoplasty surgery in the world. As many as 200,000 Iranians, most women, have the procedure every year to remove a nasal hump and lift and slim the tip of their noses. An Iranian nasal research society (Rhinology Research Society of Iran) conducted a joint study with Johns Hopkins University that discovered that the rate of rhinoplasties done in Iran was 7X that of the U.S. What accounts for such a rate of rhinoplasty in a country where few would think of it as so common? Due to fashion restrictions imposed by religion, the face makes a very important personal statement. Having an attractive nose is considered extremely important in Iranian society. Influenced by Western culture and Hollywood, smaller noses with more Western proportions is considered beautiful. The ethnic Persian nose with a large hump and a downturned tip is no longer in style.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana