By Dr. Eric Li
Injectable dermal fillers are used in liquid rhinoplasty, a non-surgical alternative to surgical rhinoplasty, to accentuate the nose’s features. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 555 Knowles Drive, Suite 218 Los Gatos, CA 95032.
To have surgery or not. These thoughts may be running through a patient’s mind when they find out that there are multiple non-surgical and surgical options to improve one’s aesthetic appearance. However, the best treatment for each patient must consider one’s specific aesthetic goals and the desired longevity of the procedure.
In this article, we will discuss the differences between a liquid rhinoplasty and a surgical rhinoplasty, aka “nose job.” Dr. Li is a double-board certified plastic surgeon who has expertise in rhinoplasties as part of his private practice based in San Jose and Los Gatos Bay Area California.
This: Liquid Rhinoplasty
As the name sounds, this procedure involves the injection of liquid-like substance, or more specifically hyaluronic acid filler, into targeted areas of your nose to adjust its shape and/or projection. The filler used is the same as filler that you would inject into other parts of your face, such as the cheeks and lips. In our clinic, we will decide if Juvéderm or Restylane are best suited for your particular goals. Like other facial filler procedures, liquid rhinoplasties are performed with the patient entirely awake. This process is also interactive, allowing the patient to interact with Dr. Li throughout the procedure and see results real-time. With filler, it is possible to camouflage unwanted bumps or asymmetries, create sharper contours of the nose, and project the nose. Fillers are not permanent however, meaning that the results will eventually decrease and fade over time (typically over a year), and patients may want or need to return for follow-up visits, touch-up treatments, or repeat treatment to maintain results. Also, if results are for whatever reason not desired, fillers can be reversed with a medication called hyaluronidase. As such, a liquid rhinoplasty may be a great option for someone who is not ready to commit to a traditional surgical rhinoplasty, as it is a quicker, less invasive, less costly, and reversible way to make adjustments to the nose. With minimal recovery time and immediate results, this option is appealing to many.
That: Surgical Rhinoplasty
Now comes the discussion of what typically comes to mind when people think of a “nose job”, which is known more formally in the aesthetic world as a surgical rhinoplasty. This procedure requires a patient to go “down under” or general anesthesia, before permanent alterations are made to the bone structure, cartilage structure, and soft tissues of the nose. As with any surgical intervention, there is always greater cost and recovery time involved, but changes are permanent and do not require maintenance. This can be an attractive option for patients who have had a liquid rhinoplasty and liked their results, but for some patients, the desired changes are only possible through surgery and they may not be a good candidate for liquid rhinoplasty regardless. Mock photos can sometimes be created by Dr. Li to simulate the anticipated changes to the nose and one’s facial appearance after a surgical rhinoplasty.
After discussing these two options, we hope we gave you more clarity in determining which treatment option for your nose is most suitable for you and your lifestyle. Ultimately, a thorough consultation and in-person appointment with Dr. Li is necessary to understand how you can achieve your “perfect nose.”