In a world where pageants demand poise, confidence, and flawless presentation, even the smallest insecurity can feel like a mountain. For Angel Ruiz, that insecurity centered on her nose — and overcoming it became the turning point that led her to win Miss Illinois USA 2022.
Featured in People Magazine, Ruiz opened up about how her rhinoplasty with Dr. Anil Shah, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon based in New York City and Chicago, transformed not just her appearance — but her confidence, her mindset, and ultimately, her success.
Why Miss Illinois Chose Dr. Shah for Her Rhinoplasty
After several years of competing in pageants and coming up short, Angel knew something was holding her back — and it wasn’t her talent or stage presence. It was confidence.
“I just didn’t feel like the best version of myself,” she told People. That’s when she began searching for a top surgeon who could deliver subtle, natural-looking rhinoplasty results without altering her identity.
Her search led her to Dr. Anil Shah, a renowned expert in celebrity rhinoplasty and advanced facial techniques at Noses & Necks NYC.
Rhinoplasty and the Winning Beauty of a Natural Result
In March 2022, just three months before the pageant, Dr. Shah performed Ruiz’s rhinoplasty. The change wasn’t dramatic — and that’s exactly the point.
Using his signature approach to structure-preserving, minimally traumatic nose reshaping, Dr. Shah refined the contours of Ruiz’s nose while preserving her facial harmony and identity.
The outcome? A quiet confidence that shined through — and helped her win.
“Changing the nose is about more than altering a physical feature,” said Dr. Shah. “It helps patients recognize their own personal beauty.”
Personalized Cosmetic Nose Surgery for Confidence that Shows
Angel Ruiz’s story isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about doing something for yourself, choosing the right professional, and embracing change for the right reasons.
Since winning her title, Angel has become an advocate for openness about cosmetic surgery in the pageant world — a space that often values appearance but hesitates to discuss enhancement. She regularly tells others:
- “Do it for yourself.”
- “Do it with a professional.”
- “Do your research.”
That same mindset is shared by many of Dr. Shah’s patients — from pageant competitors to professionals and public figures — who choose rhinoplasty not just for aesthetic reasons, but for how it makes them feel.
Explore Before & After Rhinoplasty Results
Curious what’s possible with subtle, confidence-boosting rhinoplasty? Explore our before-and-after gallery to see real patient transformations from Dr. Shah.
Book a Consultation with NYC Facial Plastic Surgeon Dr. Anil Shah
Whether you’re a pageant contestant, public speaker, or just looking to feel more confident in your skin, Dr. Shah brings the experience and artistry needed to deliver natural rhinoplasty results in NYC. Located in Midtown Manhattan, Noses & Necks NYC offers both in-person and virtual consultations for your convenience.