A fantastic new procedure has recently emerged onto the plastic surgery scene: the nose job without surgery.  “Non-surgical rhinoplasty” is quick, relatively painless, and inexpensive – and the results are as satisfying as a traditional nose job.

How is it done?

A soft tissue filler is precisely injected into the nose, filling depressions, smoothing ridges and sharp angles, and even lifting the tip.  A dorsal hump can be made to disappear, an asymmetry can be corrected, and a flat nasal bridge can be elevated.  Results last from 6 months to several years, depending on the filler used.

• The procedure has many advantages over the traditional rhinoplasty:
• No anesthesia is required.
• The procedure is performed in the office in 15 – 30 minutes.
• The recovery time is minimal, with some swelling for a day or two.
• The patient remains awake and can provide input during the procedure.
• The cost is much less.
• There is no scarring within the nose, minimizing the effects on breathing.
• There are no nose bleeds during the recovery period.

 

Although Juvederm and Restylane are commonly used, I prefer Radiesse and Artefill because they last longer and the results are more predictable.  Radiesse is composed of calcium hydroxylapatite, which is a normal component of bone and teeth.  It is a natural substance and biodegradable, so there is no need for allergy testing before it is used.  Artefill is composed of microscopic polymethylmethacrylate (ie, tiny plastic) beads wrapped in a bovine collagen carrier.  It is permanent and requires a 28 day waiting period after a simple skin test.  These fillers stay exactly where they are placed -- they do not migrate like some other fillers.

Am I a candidate?

Most patients seeking to improve the aesthetic quality of their noses are good candidates.  Injection of filler can:

• Diminish the appearance of humps and bumps.
• Smooth out dents, hollow areas, or indentations, thereby making the nose more symmetric.
• Create or augment a flat or depressed nasal bridge (a common request in the Asian and African American population).
• Correct a droopy or depressed tip of the nose.

The non-surgical rhinoplasty does have its limitations.  For those with major nasal deformities or who are looking to reduce the size of their nose, surgical intervention is still necessary.

Caveat emptor!

“Buyer beware”.  There are many practitioners injecting fillers, and some have better training and more experience than others.  A non-surgical rhinoplasty requires much more precision than injecting other parts of the face, such as the cheeks or nasolabial folds in a “liquid lift”.  The procedure should only be performed by a doctor who has studied 3-dimensional facial anatomy, and who has detailed knowledge of nasal structures.  Board-certification in an appropriate specialty, such as plastic surgery or ENT, is important.

Conclusion

A nose job without surgery is an excellent option for those who want a non-invasive procedure and who are looking for fast, satisfying results.  It is affordable and available to most people wanting to improve the aesthetic appearance of their nose.