A young Muslim woman in her twenties presents with nasal bone curvature. Her appearance would significantly improve with surgical correction. It should be noted that this condition has no adverse effects on her health. In light of this, is it permissible for her to undergo surgery to correct this defect, which would significantly improve her psychological well-being and improve her prospects of marriage?

Allah Almighty prohibits altering His creation in a manner that suggests objection to His will and decree, describing such actions as the work of Satan. Allah Almighty says that Satan declared, “I will command them so they will alter the creation of Allah” (Quran, 4: 119). It is therefore impermissible to change one’s natural form in pursuit of aesthetic enhancement. However, this ruling does not apply in cases of medical necessity, such as correcting congenital defects or treating conditions that may lead to harm.  

Among the established maxims of Islamic law is that harm must be removed, based on the hadith of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), “Harm should not be caused or reciprocated” (recorded by Imam Ahmad, Ibn Majah, al-Hakim, and others; Imam al-Nawawi declared it authentic).

 

The ruling

Based on the above, there is no objection in Islamic law to undergoing surgery to correct a nasal bone curvature, as this constitutes removal of harm rather than aesthetic enhancement.