Non-surgical vs. Surgical Rhinoplasty
The size and shape of the nose plays a significant role in a person’s appearance. A minor bump on the nose, a narrow bridge, and a drooping tip can draw unwanted attention to your nose. To address nasal imperfections, patients can undergo rhinoplasty to improve the profile and overall appearance.
At Clinic of Facial Plastic Surgery in Buffalo, NY, Dr. David Sherris frequently performs rhinoplasty to permanently enhance a patient’s appearance. Before undergoing surgery, some patients wonder if there are any less invasive options to address cosmetic problems with the nose. Here, we discuss non-surgical vs. surgical rhinoplasty, including the pros and cons of each approach.
Non-surgical Rhinoplasty
Non-surgical rhinoplasty, also called liquid rhinoplasty, is a temporary way to improve the appearance of the nose. This may be a good option for patients with minor nasal imperfections that are unsure about surgery.
This treatment approach involves the use of dermal filler injections to add volume to certain areas of the nose. For example, injections can be administered on top of the bridge to create a straighter appearance. Or, injections can be added at the sides of the bridge to make it appear wider.
Non-surgical rhinoplasty can’t address all types of nasal imperfections such as a drooping tip, and the results only last for a few months.
At our Buffalo practice, we offer Restylane®, JUVÉDERM™, and Radiesse® to patients that wish to enhance the appearance of their nose.
Pros
- Treatment can be completed in just 30 minutes
- The cost is more affordable
- Patients can temporarily change the appearance of their nose to decide if rhinoplasty is right for them
Cons
- The results only last for a few months, at which time treatment can be repeated
- More limited treatment capabilities
- Only minor changes can be made
Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure in which permanent alterations are made to the underlying nasal structures. During the rhinoplasty procedure, the surgeon can shave down bone and cartilage to reduce the size and prominence of the nose. Or, grafts can be added to augment certain areas of the nose. In addition, the bridge, tip, and nostrils can all be adjusted to address just about any cosmetic problem.
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure, so it does require some preparation and downtime. In general, it takes about six weeks to completely recover from surgery. However, most patients look and feel well enough to return to work and other activities after about two weeks.
Pros
- The results are permanent
- Many more changes can be done to improve appearance and symmetry
- Requires just a one-time cost to improve a patient’s facial appearance
Cons
- Patients must undergo a surgical procedure
- It takes a few weeks to recover from surgery
- Surgery is associated with a low risk of complications
Contact Our Practice
The best way to decide if non-surgical rhinoplasty or surgical rhinoplasty is right for you is to contact our practice and schedule a consultation. You can contact us online at your earliest convenience, or call us in Buffalo at (716) 884-5102. Dr. Sherris is a double-board certified facial plastic surgeon who has undergone extensive rhinoplasty training. You can trust him to perform your procedure with successful results.