A non-surgical nose job, sometimes referred to as liquid rhinoplasty, is a big trend in the cosmetic surgery field these days, especially in cities like Houston. It has become an increasingly popular way to change the shape of a patient’s nose without surgery. The procedure is not a rhinoplasty in the strictest sense of the word. Rather, it involves the injection of fillers into the nose. Read on for more information on this popular and rising procedure.
The Basics of Non-Surgical Nose Jobs
As mentioned above, a liquid rhinoplasty is accomplished with the use of dermal fillers. The most commonly used fillers are Restylane® (hyaluronic acid) and Radiesse®. While Radiesse® is the longest-lasting of all temporary fillers, there’s a downside: it won’t quickly dissolve if the patient is unsatisfied with the results. Therefore, it is extremely important to see a skilled cosmetic surgeon for liquid nose jobs to ensure that the fillers are properly placed for aesthetic results.
Many doctors prefer to use a shorter-duration temporary filler so the results can be modified to the patient’s satisfaction. Although fillers such as Restylane® and Juvederm® are not as long-lasting, they can easily be dissolved with enzyme injections.
How can Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty Help Patients?
The primary use of dermal fillers in the nasal area is to camouflage a dorsal hump by filling the area above and/or below. The patient’s nose will be larger after treatment; however, the visible lump will be gone. Liquid rhinoplasty is a good nose reconstruction treatment for patients who have lost too much of the nasal dorsum during previous surgical procedures, and it is a good tool to smooth minor imperfections in the first few months after a conventional rhinoplasty. Results from non-surgical rhinoplasties can last anywhere from six months to life, depending on which filler is used.
Post-Procedural Infection
While liquid or non-surgical rhinoplasty is a relatively safe procedure, there are possible complications to consider. If the filler is injected into one of the many blood vessels in the nose, it can cause skin necrosis and other issues. There have been a few reported cases of vision loss and severe, but non-life-threatening, infections.
Who is a Candidate for Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty?
To determine whether a person is a good candidate for a non-surgical nose job, Dr. Patt of the Houston Center for Facial Plastic Surgery will perform a thorough evaluation which includes a complete consultation to discuss available options for your specific situation, possible risks and complications- though minimal, and medical history. Dr. Patt also provides computer imaging, so you’ll have an idea of your results.
When deciding whether to undergo such a procedure, patients should always choose an experienced, skilled rhinoplasty surgeon. Contact Dr. Patt’s office today.
