Rhinoplasty vs. Non-Surgical Nose Job: What Are the Differences?

By Dr. Timothy Greco

Knowing the difference between a rhinoplasty and a non-surgical nose job is key to knowing which procedure you would want to consider.

The nose is one of the key contributors to the symmetry and aesthetics of the face due to its central positioning. Unfortunately, not everyone is born with a nose they find attractive. In addition, trauma, genetics, and the effects of aging are all factors that may distort its shape.

Dr. Timothy Greco specializes exclusively in procedures for the face, head, and neck. With such a focus, he often hears from patients wondering whether a “non-surgical” nose job can be an effective solution to their problem.

Dermal fillers may sometimes be an alternative to surgical rhinoplasty or to enhance the results of a previous rhinoplasty. Dr. Greco has a specific preference for performing “liquid” nose jobs at his state-certified aesthetic surgical center in Philadelphia.

A liquid nose job is often performed using the Juvederm Ultra® injectable to give patients a better idea of what their final results from a surgical rhinoplasty would look like.

Let’s look at what is involved in surgical and non-surgical procedures.

Surgical Rhinoplasty

Classic rhinoplasty can be used for both functional and aesthetic purposes. The procedure can help with misalignments and with improving breathing issues caused by internal blockages.

However, it is also the most popular option when purely aesthetic changes are needed. Classic rhinoplasty can help with almost any aspect of the nose and help accentuate a patient’s favorite individual features.

Patients are sedated with MAC (twilight) anesthesia before the procedure begins. Dr. Greco then makes strategic incisions that allow him to modify the bone and cartilage structure of the nose.

Patients can expect 80% of bruising and swelling to be gone after two weeks. Final results will be apparent up to one year after the procedure. This allows the nose to fully heal and settle into its new shape and size.

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty

During a non-surgical nose job, nose filler, or liquid rhinoplasty, the shape of the nose is changed, and imperfections are corrected using hyaluronic acid injectables.

Unlike rhinoplasty, this strategy changes the look of the nose only temporarily. This is one reason some patients opt for non-surgical corrections; it requires virtually no downtime.

Fillers also cause less discomfort and can dissolve if the result is unsatisfactory. This technique is most often used to correct a dorsal hump, improve any asymmetry, and work on tip projection. However, a nose filler does have some limitations. It cannot reduce the size of a large nose.

Both types of corrective treatments can provide you with an aesthetically pleasing, harmonious appearance. Deciding on the procedure right for you is best discussed with an experienced and skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Greco.

During your consultation with Dr. Greco, you will have the opportunity to discuss what aspects of your nose bother you and help you set realistic expectations from the procedure.

Dr. Greco will work with you to create visible changes that improve symmetry, proportion, and balance. Computer-assisted digital imaging is an invaluable tool used during your consultation to give you an idea of how changes to the nose will affect your facial aesthetics.

Do you have more questions?

Dr. Timothy Greco is Philadelphia’s leading facial plastic surgeon, skilled at all types of cosmetic procedures that help counter the effects of aging.

Dr. Greco focuses solely on plastic and reconstructive surgery of the face, head, and neck at his in-office, state-certified aesthetic surgical center. If you’re looking for a younger, fresher appearance customized to your facial structure, Dr. Greco can help!

Get in touch today to schedule a consultation with Philadelphia’s leading facial plastic surgeon. For appointments, call (610) 664-8830 or check the doctor’s schedule online.