Nonsurgical Nose Job

Latest update: July 14, 2024
Medically reviewed by: Jennifer Trent MD, FAAD

Details

For some, negative thoughts about their appearance are as plain as the nose on their face. They are unable to look past the imperfections they see when they look in the mirror. 

Whether it’s size, shape, or any other aspect of their nose, they think to themselves “I wish it was different”. For many, the thought of going under the knife leaves them feeling anxious at best. For the people that fit into both camps, there is a non-surgical nose job or non-surgical / liquid Rhinoplasty.

The procedure involves fillers, like hyaluronic acid, injected underneath the skin of the nose to add volume, enhance the tip, camouflage a bump on the bridge of the nose, straighten the nose, or smooth the lines. The longevity of the filler depends on the patient's metabolism, the type of filler used, and the area being treated. Effects can last anywhere from 4 months to 3 years. During the initial consultation, goals and expectations are discussed.  A topical numbing cream is applied before the procedure to prevent any discomfort from the needle or cannula used to inject the fillers. Once the anesthetic has started working, the filler will be injected into the parts of the nose to create the desired effect. Procedures will ordinarily last up to 45 minutes.

Patients must select an experienced practitioner to perform the procedure as there is always the potential for complications when fillers are injected into the nose. The most feared complications include vascular occlusion leading to skin necrosis, blindness, stroke, or death.  Hyaluronic acid fillers tend to be preferred because they can be dissolved if necessary. There are longer-lasting fillers available, but they cannot be dissolved.  

In some cases, Botox may be used to reduce movement and prevent the development of dynamic wrinkles.

Results can be dramatic or subtle depending on the patient's goals.  Downtime is minimal.
Anesthesia
topical
Operation Time
1
Inpatient Period
n/a
Number of Appointments
1
Recovery Period
n/a
Invasiveness
minimal

I Tried A Non-Surgical Nose Job

Dr. Gary Linkov, from City Facial Plastics in New York, takes us through the differences between nasal surgery and nasal filler, the non-surgical option. He answers questions about the procedures to explain who benefits from each treatment. He compares the impact and possibilities with filler to those seen after a surgical nose job. He performs a filler treatment on a patient’s nose and breaks down his opinion at the same time. Which option would be better for you?