The nose is at the center of the face, which means it can attract attention if it’s large or asymmetrical. Many people undergo a rhinoplasty at my San Francisco practice so they can feel less self-conscious when looking in the mirror. But what if surgery makes you feel uneasy? Is there a less invasive way to change your nose?
With new technology and innovative techniques, nonsurgical rhinoplasty is now an excellent option. Nonsurgical rhinoplasty (also known as a “liquid nose job”) involves using dermal filler injections to adjust the appearance of the nose.
While this treatment is a good choice for those who want to avoid surgery, it’s not the same as traditional rhinoplasty. This blog post will explain the major differences and how you can tell if nonsurgical rhinoplasty is right for you.
How does the procedure work?
Nonsurgical rhinoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that involves using dermal fillers to adjust the shape of the nose. These injections typically use hyaluronic acid-based fillers placed at strategic locations to modify the bridge, the tip, and other areas. Neurotoxins (like BOTOX®) also might be used, but this is less common.
The procedure itself usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. A numbing cream can be used beforehand so that the injections involve minimal discomfort. Fillers also come pre-mixed with anesthetic for comfort.
Rhinoplasty, in contrast, is a surgical procedure that remodels the nose’s bone, cartilage, and soft tissue. The procedure usually takes 2 to 3 hours and is performed while the patient is under general anesthesia.
What issues can it treat?
Nonsurgical rhinoplasty is best for those who want slight, subtle adjustments to their noses. With dermal fillers, bumps can be evened out, the nasal tip can be refined, and the bridge can be made to appear straighter and slimmer. Some doctors are also testing using injectables to widen the airway and help relieve breathing problems, but these injectables are not a substitute for septoplasty.
While dermal fillers can help your nose appear straighter or more refined, they cannot shrink the size of your nose. Because of this, nonsurgical rhinoplasty works best for patients who only wish to make the nose straighter or to modify the tip.
What are recovery and results like?
This is a nonsurgical procedure, so patients can return to work or home immediately after treatment. There is a possibility of slight bruising or swelling afterward, but these side effects will subside after a few days.
The results of nonsurgical rhinoplasty last as long as the fillers themselves. Because dermal fillers are made up of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance, the effects gradually fade over time. Most results last anywhere from 6 to 12 months.
What are the benefits of choosing nonsurgical rhinoplasty?
Nonsurgical rhinoplasty can be an excellent option for many reasons. You should consider treatment if you:
- Are uncomfortable with the idea of surgery and want a less invasive option with no downtime
- Mainly want to address smaller problem areas, such as refining the bridge or modifying the nose tip
- Prefer a treatment that is temporary or easily reversible; some patients use a nonsurgical nose job to “test drive” changes they might desire from traditional rhinoplasty
- Want a lower price point that is more easily accessible
Every patient’s needs are different. Ultimately, you should have a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss whether nonsurgical rhinoplasty can help you meet your goals.
Our San Francisco team specializes in rhinoplasty and would be happy to answer any questions you might have. Request a consultation online or call our office at (415) 441-1888.
Leave a Reply