Want a more refined nose but aren't ready for or don’t want to undergo surgical rhinoplasty? Good news, advancements in cosmetic procedures have given rise to non-surgical rhinoplasty, also known as a “liquid nose job,” which uses dermal fillers to reshape the nose without incisions or downtime. This post will outline what you need to consider if you’re considering this option. Non-surgical rhinoplasty is best for minor imperfections and subtle enhancements. Here’s what it can do:
What Can Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty Do?
Non-surgical rhinoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that uses injectable dermal fillers to change the shape of the nose. The procedure involves injecting fillers, usually hyaluronic acid-based, into specific areas of the nose to address various concerns. These can be smoothing out bumps, correcting asymmetry, lifting the tip, or creating the illusion of a thinner nose. The procedure is done in under an hour, and results are immediate with minimal downtime.
Smoothing Bumps: Fillers can be placed to smooth out minor bumps on the nasal bridge, creating a straighter profile.
Lifting a Drooping Tip: Injecting filler can give a subtle lift to a drooping nasal tip, giving a more youthful appearance.
Correcting Asymmetry: Fillers can be used to correct minor asymmetries and create a more balanced look.
Creating a Thinner Appearance: By adding volume in specific areas, fillers can create the illusion of a thinner nose.
What to Consider Before Getting a Non-Surgical Nose Job
Non-surgical rhinoplasty has limitations. It can’t reduce the size of the nose or correct major structural issues like a deviated septum or breathing problems. For those concerns, surgical rhinoplasty may be a better option.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Realistic Expectations: Be realistic. Non-surgical rhinoplasty can refine and enhance your natural nose shape, but not change your nose completely.
Consult with a Qualified Practitioner: Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist with experience in non-surgical rhinoplasty. They should know facial anatomy and be able to assess your suitability for the procedure.
Medical History: Tell your practitioner your complete medical history, including any allergies or medications you’re taking. This will help determine if you’re a good candidate and minimize risks.
Avoid Blood-Thinning Medications: Certain medications and supplements can thin the blood and increase bruising or bleeding. Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, Vitamin E, fish oil, and other blood thinners for at least a week before the procedure, after consulting with your doctor.
Understand the Risks: While generally safe, non-surgical rhinoplasty carries risks of bruising, swelling, infection, and in rare cases, vascular compromise. Discuss these risks with your practitioner and understand the complications.
Post-Treatment Care: Follow post-treatment instructions for best results. This includes not touching the area, not wearing makeup for a certain period, and not doing strenuous activities.
Aftercare and Longevity
Consultation: A qualified practitioner will assess your nose and talk to you about your goals and desired outcome.
Preparation: The practitioner will clean the area and may apply a topical numbing cream to reduce discomfort.
Marking: The practitioner will mark the areas of your nose that need enhancement.
Injection: The practitioner will inject the dermal filler into the marked areas using a fine needle or cannula.
Massaging: After the injections, the practitioner may massage or mould your nose to distribute the filler evenly.
Review and Touch-ups: The practitioner will review the results and may do minor touch-ups.
Don’t Touch: Don’t touch or massage the area for the first few hours.
No Makeup: Don’t wear makeup on or around your nose for at least 24 hours.
No Strenuous Activities: Don’t do heavy exercise or activities that may cause excessive sweating for at least 24 hours.
Sun Protection: Avoid direct sunlight and sunbeds for about a week and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
No Saunas: Avoid saunas for about a week.
No Blood Thinners: Avoid blood thinners for a few days after the procedure.
Minimise Glasses: Minimise the use of glasses or sunglasses for about two weeks.