Most probably you have already heard about traditional rhinoplasty, which is aimed to modify the shape of your nose. Recent studies show that rhinoplasty is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures with more than 220,000 surgeries performed annually.
Almost everyone knows that traditional rhinoplasty involves surgical intervention. However, did you know that there is also non-surgical rhinoplasty? This article will help you understand the difference between non-surgical and traditional rhinoplasty.
1. The essence of non-surgical rhinoplasty
Non-surgical rhinoplasty is also called a liquid nose job or a 15-minute nose job. This type of rhinoplasty procedure can change the shape of your nose for up to 6 months. This is a perfect option for those who want to smooth out bumps in their nose or make them less prominent but who are also not ready for a permanent solution.
Non-surgical rhinoplasty is also a great alternative for people who are highly concerned about all the risks and side effects that come along with a traditional rhinoplasty. You have to understand that changing the shape of the nose involves a certain degree of risk.
2. Potential risks and side effects of non-surgical rhinoplasty
Without any doubt, going under the needle is less risky than going under the knife. Although, modifying the shape of your nose is never risk-free. The most common side effect experienced by people who undergo liquid rhinoplasty is a little redness and sensitivity in the site of the injection. This sensitivity and redness can remain for two or three days following the procedure.
There are also other side effects associated with a 15-minute nose job and they are as follows:
- Swelling
- Brushing at the area of the injection
- Filler migration
- Nausea
You need to be aware of the fact that your nose is an extremely sensitive area, which is packed with a lot of blood vessels. This is the main reason why liquid rhinoplasty is more complicated than other types of injectable filler procedures. Professional facial plastic surgeons typically err on the side of using less filler in your nose rather than overfilling the area.
Keep in mind that you are at a higher risk of encountering complications of non-surgical rhinoplasty if you choose an unlicensed provider. Severe complications include:
- Tissue death
- Vision loss
- Vascular complications
As you can see, the aforementioned complications are extremely serious. Therefore, do not attempt to save money on this procedure and do not make use of an unlicensed provider.
3.  Process of non-surgical rhinoplasty
This type of cosmetic procedure is very simple if compared to traditional rhinoplasty. The first step is a thorough consultation with your facial plastic surgeon where you discuss the desired results. During the actual procedure, topical anesthesia will be applied to your nose and the surrounding area. That way, you will not experience pain from the needle.
The next step is injecting the filler into the area around your nose and sometimes the bridge of your nose. During this process, you might feel some degree of pitching or pressure. The whole process normally takes between 15 to 45 minutes.
A non-surgical rhinoplasty procedure is extremely helpful if you want to:
- Add volume to your nose
- Lift the tip of your nose
- Smooth out small bumps in your nose
- Make the tip of your nose more prominent
However, you need to keep in mind that liquid rhinoplasty is not able to make your nose look smaller or smooth out very prominent bumps. Do not set unrealistic expectations for this procedure.
4. The average cost of non-surgical rhinoplasty
Just like any other cosmetic procedure, non-surgical rhinoplasty is not covered by medical insurance. Medical insurance covers procedures that are done purely for cosmetic purposes. For instance, traditional rhinoplasty can be covered by medical insurance if the goal of the procedure was to regain normal breathing.
It is not possible to state the exact cost of liquid rhinoplasty as it depends on a variety of factors. These are the kind of filler used, expertise and experience of a facial plastic surgeon, the number of injections required, and the clinic itself. Before lying down under the needle, make sure you receive a complete cost breakdown from your provider. That way, you will know what to expect. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that the average cost of non-surgical rhinoplasty ranges from $600 to $1,500.
5. Recovery process
Following the procedure, you might experience pain, redness, and swelling around the site of injections. These side effects should disappear an hour or two after the procedure. Once redness starts to subside, you will be able to see the desired results. It is also recommended to make use of an ice pack after the procedure.
You will be able to see the results within a week or two. By that time, bruising and redness should fully subside. Liquid rhinoplasty has gained its popularity partly because it has little to no recovery time. It allows you to be back at work or school on the very same day. Although, you need to understand that the majority of fillers will dissolve into your skin layer within 6 months and some filler ingredients can last up to three years. Anyways, the outcomes of non-surgical rhinoplasty are not permanent.
The bottom line
Without any doubt, liquid rhinoplasty is much cheaper than a traditional one. But you have to determine whether you want to enjoy temporary results of this nose job or you want to have permanent results. Regardless of the type of rhinoplasty you choose, make sure you select an experienced and board-certified surgeon.
