A non-surgical nose job or a non-surgical rhinoplasty, aren’t just referred to in these terms. It’s also known as the “liquid rhinoplasty,” “lunchtime nose job,” or “15-minute nose job.” Catchy phrases to describe the benefits of this non-invasive procedure that reshapes the nose or smooths out a person’s profile using dermal fillers injections. A much faster and less traumatic procedure to augment the nose compared to the traditional rhinoplasty surgery.
However, a non-surgical rhinoplasty can’t fix a deviated septum (when your nasal passage is misplaced inside the nose), which would require surgery. But it can help a person wishing only to alter the nose with minor tweaks or changes for a more appealing look instantly.
So, a “lunchtime nose job” is an accurate description of the procedure, not just a buzzy marketing ploy, because you can change the look of your nose in the middle of the day without needing any downtime.
Pretty incredible, right?
So, what type of fillers are used in a non-surgical nose job, and how long do the results last? We share all the detail about the pros and cons of this alternative surgery option.
A non-surgical nose job, also referred to as a non-surgical Rhinoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to rebalance the shape of the nose or improve the angle of a profile without a surgical procedure. Instead, this non-invasive procedure uses dermal fillers to make the adjustments to the nose. Gel-like dermal filler injections imitate a soft tissue appearance to help camouflage a bump on the nose or create a more defined nose tip.
Non-surgical rhinoplasty is a non-invasive procedure considered an outpatient doctor’s visit that can take less than an hour to complete.
There are two types of cosmetic injections used for a non-surgical nose job; dermal gel fillers made of hyaluronic acid (HA) and, in some cases, a neurotoxin injection, like Botox.
The hyaluronic acid formulation mimics the same type of acid found naturally in our bodies. HA is a natural gooey substance that helps keep skin cells lubricated by pulling in moisture around the surrounding areas to create a smooth and supple surface. An essential ingredient to support the structure of the underlying tissue beneath the skin’s surface.
In addition to using dermal fillers, in some cases, the cosmetic surgeon may use a neuromodulator injection, like Botox or Dysport, to help paralyze the movements around the nose to create a subtle lift of the nose tip.
Juvederm Voluma is an FDA- approved gel-like filler made of hyaluronic acid. Voluma is the thickest gel formulation in the Juvederm collection. An ideal filler consistency that imitates tissue or cartilage to help reshape the nose by getting rid of bumps or filling dips for a smoother profile angle.
The high concentration of HA in the gel formulation makes Voluma one of the more sustainable dermal fillers, with results lasting for up to two years.
Restylane Lyft is also approved by the FDA and is made of hyaluronic acid gel. Lyft is one of the firmer gel fillers compared to other formulas offered by Restylane. The substantial gel formulation can help fill the bridge of a nose that’s underdeveloped or create a more defined nose tip.
Restylane Lyft can last 6 to 9 months from the initial injection. The results are not last as long as Juvéderm Voluma, but it can be an ideal option for patients only wanting to try out and see what a liquid nose job could look like. Over time, the HA formulation will neutralize and naturally absorb into the body.
Bellafill is currently the only FDA-approved semi-permanent filler. The main ingredient that helps maintain its filler structure is the microscopic beads of methyl methacrylate, a safe surgical plastic that can last over five years.
Bellafill is recommended after having a liquid rhinoplasty done in the past to ensure injection sites are the ideal placement for a Bellafill injection since this filler is not reversible or will not absorb into the body.
You will notice an immediate difference after the procedure is complete and will be able to walk out of the doctor’s office without requiring any downtime to recover.
All dermal filler injections are not permanent and require additional injections to maintain the results. Depending on which brand or type of dermal filler is used for your treatment, it can last six months to a couple of years. Unless you have chosen to use Bellafill, that can last over five years.
Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of a non-surgical rhinoplasty
A non-surgical nose job is an ideal solution to make minor adjustments and tweaks to the look and appearance of the nose, all within an hour with a few strategically placed filler injections.
It, unfortunately, can’t resolve issues with the breathing functionality or fix the tissue or cartilage inside the nose, which is reserved for a surgical Rhinoplasty.
The first step when considering a non-surgical nose job is to consult with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon who can examine the structure of your nose. They will advise if a liquid Rhinoplasty is the best solution that aligns with your ultimate vision for a newly shaped nose.
To find a board-certified cosmetic surgeon that is highly trained in performing non-surgical nose jobs, use our "Find a Doctor" navigation tool to find a local practitioner near you.
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