Factors Associated with Adults' Decisions to Undergo Rhinoplasty in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

The growing global popularity of rhinoplasty underscores the need to better understand public opinions and choices about the procedure. This study examines how acceptance of cosmetic surgery, concerns about nose appearance, and peer influence are associated with the decision to consider rhinoplasty among Saudi adults.

This cross-sectional study of 1591 participants used a self-administered online questionnaire. Data on considering or undergoing rhinoplasty, sociodemographic characteristics, and whether friends or family members had undergone the surgery were collected. The Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale (ACSS) and nose-related appearance concern scale were used. Perceived reasons for and against considering rhinoplasty, as well as perceived seriousness of postoperative complications, were examined. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS v27.

The mean age was 35.7 ± 13.2 years, with a majority being females (70%). Of the 1591 participants, 74% were not considering rhinoplasty, while 26% were considering the procedure or had already undergone it. The most common perceived reason for undergoing rhinoplasty was to enhance appearance, while religious concerns were the most common perceived reason for refusing it. Participants identified the mismatch between the nose and the face (20.1%) as the most serious complication. The ACSS was a key factor associated with higher odds of considering rhinoplasty at all stages, from exploring options to undergoing surgery. During the exploration stage, those with financial constraints were more likely to explore rhinoplasty options, whereas wealthier participants were 67% less likely to do so (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.16-0.71). Greater nose concerns and having a peer who had undergone surgery increased the odds of exploration and preparation. Older age was associated with higher odds of not considering rhinoplasty (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.03-1.19). Being female was linked to higher odds of undergoing rhinoplasty (OR = 7.76, 95% CI: 1.73-34.75).

More than a quarter of the sample was willing to or had already undergone rhinoplasty. Factors associated with higher odds of considering rhinoplasty included female gender, young age, limited financial resources, having a friend or family member who had the surgery, concerns about nose appearance, and the acceptance of cosmetic surgery in general.