Rhinoplasty vs Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty: Which Option Is Right for Me?

While both a rhinoplasty and non-surgical rhinoplasty are procedures that can adjust the shape of the nose, a surgical rhinoplasty achieves a permanent change, while a non-surgical treatment achieves temporary results. This is just one difference between the two procedure options when it comes to deciding between a rhinoplasty vs non-surgical rhinoplasty.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the main differences between the two procedures. If you would like to discuss the details of each procedure in person and decide which procedure is most suitable, we invite you to book a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons at Valley Plastic Surgery in Brisbane.

What is a surgical rhinoplasty?

A surgical rhinoplasty involves modifying the nose’s structure. While it is commonly known as a procedure that can change the nose’s appearance, it can also address the structure, helping to improve functional concerns.

The procedure can address asymmetry, humps or bumps, wide or narrow nostrils, the shape of the nose tip, and structural issues that may be causing breathing difficulties (such as a deviated septum).

A rhinoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia and typically involves incisions either inside the nostrils (closed rhinoplasty) or across the columella, the strip of tissue between the nostrils (open rhinoplasty). The bone and cartilage can be adjusted during the procedure, as needed. Depending on the complexity of the steps, a procedure can take about one to three hours.

Recovery from rhinoplasty can be quite involved. Patients usually experience swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes, which can take some time to subside. Initial recovery takes about one to two weeks, but the final results may not be fully apparent until six months to a year after surgery, once the swelling has completely subsided.

Apart from normal changes that can occur in the future, due to the natural ageing process, results from a rhinoplasty are permanent.

What is a non-surgical rhinoplasty?

A non-surgical rhinoplasty uses a minimally invasive method to temporarily adjusts the shape of the nose, but not the structure. It can address the aesthetics of the nose but cannot address functional concerns. The treatment can address small bumps, minor to moderate asymmetry, and the nose tip.

The minimally invasive procedure can be performed under local anaesthesia, and can take about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on each patient’s tailored treatment steps. One of the biggest advantages of a non-surgical rhinoplasty is the shorter treatment time, and minimal recovery time.

After treatment, most patients can usually return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure, with only minor swelling or redness. However, like with a surgical rhinoplasty, some aftercare instructions will need to be followed to prevent complications – although instructions after a non-surgical procedure are generally less extensive.

Results from a non-surgical approach are temporary, and would require additional treatments to maintain. The duration of the results will differ from patient to patient, but results can last anywhere from six months to a year.

Rhinoplasty vs non-surgical rhinoplasty

Apart from achieving permanent results, a surgical rhinoplasty can achieve a more extensive change in the shape and structure of the nose than a less invasive approach. Surgeons can make precise adjustments to the bone and cartilage, addressing the nose in a more comprehensive method.

However, a surgical approach means a more extensive procedure, which can come with risks such as infection, bleeding, and anaesthesia complications. The recovery period can be lengthy, involving significant downtime and the requirement to take some time off work.

On the other hand, a non-surgical approach can be more suitable for subtle changes in the appearance of the nose, with its faster treatment time and shorter recovery time. All treatments can be associated with some chance of complications occurring, but the risks of a non-surgical approach are slightly different. Without a lengthy recovery, patients shouldn’t need to take any time off work after the treatment.

The possible disadvantages of taking a non-surgical approach can include that it only achieves temporary results, and cannot address functional concerns. While the treatment can initially be cheaper than taking a surgical method, the costs of maintenance treatments to refresh the original results can add up over time.

What to consider when deciding between the two procedures

Choosing between a traditional rhinoplasty and a non-surgical rhinoplasty depends on your goals, the structure of your nose, and your suitability to undergo surgery.

One aspect to consider is the extent of the results you want to achieve. If you need substantial modifications to your nose’s shape or structure, surgical rhinoplasty is likely the option fit for you. However, if you’re only seeking a subtle change in the appearance of your nose, the convenience of a non-surgical approach may better suit your expectations.

You’ll also need to consider if you are able to undergo a surgical approach. During a consultation, one of our surgeons at Valley Plastic Surgery will need to assess your health and discuss a variety of factors that can influence your suitability for surgery. Essentially, to be able to choose a surgical rhinoplasty,

The recovery process that each procedure will require will also need to be carefully considered. Traditional rhinoplasty requires a commitment to the recovery process and patience to see the final results, which can take up to a year. A non-surgical approach can provide immediate results, and still require downtime, but it is generally less extensive. However, if your needs will be better met by a surgical approach, the recovery involved can be considered to be worth it.

Overall, deciding between the two options comes down to your personal needs, expectations, and preferences.

Book your consultation for a surgical rhinoplasty at Valley Plastic Surgery in Brisbane

For a comprehensive, surgical approach to rhinoplasty, addressing both the function and aesthetics of the nose with permanent results, look no further than our highly experienced team at Valley Plastic Surgery.

Located in Brisbane, our surgeons can take a highly personalised approach to a rhinoplasty procedure, carefully considering your needs, personal preferences and expectations for the results.

Please contact our team to schedule your consultation, or to ask any further questions!