Thousands of people undergo surgical rhinoplasty—commonly referred to as a nose job—each year. And an even larger group of people consider undergoing surgery for a nose job, but may decide to pass for a variety of reasons, perhaps cost, fear of recovery. Yet, rhinoplasty is on the rise — there was a 10% increase in the surgery alone in 2013 — and this trend is expected to continue as more people of all ages become aware of the effects of aging and want to put their best and most confident face forward.
But for those who don’t want to commit to an expensive, surgical procedure: Have you considered non-surgical rhinoplasty? Many people are not even aware a non-surgical nose procedure is an option! This procedure is a way to modify the appearance of your nose for a lesser cost, lower risk and best of all, you avoid undergoing the knife (and general anesthesia) altogether.
What can be done with non-surgical rhinoplasty?
Non-surgical rhinoplasty is a wonderful option for candidates who are interested in smoothing out the overall look of the nose. This could include minimizing or eliminating the appearance of the bump, smoothing out contours and reducing depressions and improving symmetry. All of these techniques can make your nose appear smaller on your face—but keep in mind, non-surgical rhinoplasty cannot change your nose size altogether. This procedure is also an approach to resolving a dropping nasal tip, raising a flat bridge or fixing a “saddle” profile. Would you have ever imagined that you can do all of these things without undergoing actual surgery?
The procedure is done by injecting minute amounts of a dermal filler like Restylane or Juvederm into areas of your nose that can be filled out and re-shaped to achieve the appearance you desire. You may have to undergo four to six treatments to reach your goal—however, again, you do not have to undergo the knife or any general anesthesia.
Should I have non-surgical rhinoplasty or just get a real “nose job”?
Non-surgical clients are typically those more concerned with smoothness of their nose, cost of the procedure and recovery. It’s much less risky than a surgical procedure for all the obvious reasons—no cutting, no anesthesia, etc. This translates to less recovery time and less risk of infection. But like any procedure, there are some risks small involved. These include sensitive reactions, infection, skin damage or possibly “lumpy” results in appearance.
Another point to consider is the length of results. Most dermal fillers and non-surgical procedures can only last so long. This means you could be coming back for this procedure numerous times throughout the years. Of course, over time this could become inconvenient and expensive. But other dermal fillers such as Artefill are forever. The small downside to this is that it’s just that—forever—so there is no going back once you have it done, unless you undergo a painful and possibly skin-damaging excision.
The surgical rhinoplasty is a must if you wish to truly reduce the size of your nose, create a smaller bridge, or a narrower nose tip. Additionally, surgical procedures are the only options if you wish to improve your breathing by fixing things like a deviated septum. Of course, this means a greater cost, undergoing general anesthesia, and a longer (more painful) recovery period. But the benefits and improvements in a surgical procedure are real and permanent; there’s greater control.
Undecided? Make sure you talk to an experienced professional.
If you’re on the fence about which procedure to choose, think about what your wishes are for your nose. If you’re seeking improvement in smoothness and depressions, prefer a lower cost and are comfortable with the idea of having to have the procedure updated from time to time—then perhaps non-surgical rhinoplasty is for you. On the other hand, if you want to change the size and shape of your nose, alter the structure to enhance breathing or want a “forever” solution, then you should discuss a traditional surgical rhinoplasty with an experienced professional.
Not sure which option is best for you? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Rob Kessler.
