Cosmetic Dermatology
How Long Does Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty Last?
Non-surgical rhinoplasty — or a “liquid nose job” — is a minimally invasive procedure to shape and sculpt the nose without a lengthy recovery process associated with traditional nose surgery. Non-surgical rhinoplasty is a widely recognised cosmetic procedure that utilises injectable fillers to modify the contours of the nose, making it a rapid treatment option for individuals looking for minor cosmetic modifications.
In this article, we will take a closer look at how long non-surgical rhinoplasty lasts, what can affect longevity, how to prolong results, as well as if it can provide the same results as surgery.
What is non-surgical rhinoplasty?
A non-surgical rhinoplasty or an injectable nose job is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes your nose using injectable dermal fillers without the need for surgery. In contrast to traditional rhinoplasty, which can involve making incisions and restructuring bone and cartilage, a non-surgical rhinoplasty is a less invasive option for those who want to refine the appearance of their nose.
The procedure typically involves hyaluronic acid-based fillers, which are injected into specific spots of the nose to treat imperfections like bumps, asymmetry, or a drooping tip.
The treatment takes no longer than 15 to 30 minutes and does not require general anaesthesia. It is perfect for those who wish to overhaul their nose with minor adjustments but don’t want to take time out of their lives for surgery. Results are instantaneous, and patients may resume their normal lives soon after the process.
Even though non-surgical rhinoplasty can enhance the aesthetic beauty of the nose, the results are not as long-lasting as traditional surgery. The effects usually last for about 6 to 18 months, depending on the individual’s body and the type of filler used.
How long does non-surgical rhinoplasty last?
The duration of non-surgical rhinoplasty results usually varies from 6 to 18 months based on multiple factors. How long the results last can depend on the type of dermal filler used, the area being treated and a person’s metabolism.
Depending on the type of filler used, hyaluronic acid fillers typically last around 6 to 12 months, while more resilient filler types may stretch results even closer to 18 months. Patients require regular touch-up treatments to keep the desired appearance. Keep in mind that the effects of the procedure are temporary, and results will gradually wear off as the body absorbs the filler.
Factors affecting how long non-surgical rhinoplasty lasts
How long the non-surgical rhinoplasty results last ultimately varies from patient to patient and can depend on several factors. Knowing these factors of the procedure can set expectations for those looking to undergo this procedure.
Type of filler used
One of the biggest factors affecting the longevity of results is the type of dermal filler injected into the nose. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is the most popular filler used in non-surgical rhinoplasty because it is found in our skin naturally, giving it the quality of being biodegradable by our body.
HA-based fillers usually last around 6 to 12 months, though it all depends on factors such as location and movement. Some newer fillers, like calcium hydroxylapatite or poly-L-lactic acid, last longer, sometimes lasting up to 18 months or longer. The filler choice is based on the effect to be achieved and the areas to be treated; thicker fillers tend to last longer.
Metabolism and lifestyle
Each person’s metabolism could determine how rapidly the physique consumes the filler substance. Non-surgical rhinoplasty may fade more quickly for those with a quicker metabolism compared to those with a slower metabolism. Moreover, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, smoking and alcohol usage can affect the degradation of the filler. Smoking, for example, can reduce circulation and affect the longevity of fillers, and regular exercise can speed up filler metabolism and absorption.
Area treated
The location of the injections matters very much in terms of how long the results last. For instance, staff have observed that some parts of the nose (like the tip) absorb the filler faster than others (like the bridge). That said, the skin near the tip is usually thinner and more mobile, which can lead to a faster breakdown of the filler. On the other hand, other areas, such as the dorsum (bridge) of the nose, are more stable and do not move around much, so they might keep their shape for a longer time.
Technique and injector experience
The injector’s skills and experience could determine your results and how long the results last. A skilled injector knows how to strategically place the filler to get even distribution, preventing migration or unevenness. A safe injection technique will also help maintain the life of the filler and allow for longer results. Less experienced injectors may overuse filler or place it in areas where it can be less stable; as a result, the results may fade sooner or lead to undesirable results.
Individual skin and ageing
Someone’s skin condition and underlying facial structure can also affect how long the results of non-surgical rhinoplasty may last. Younger patients with plumper, more elastic skin can often expect results to endure longer since their skin can better support the filler. As you get older, your skin becomes less elastic, which could make fillers break down faster. Patients with oily skin may notice that their results settle quicker since the extra oil can cause the filler to dissipate faster.
Movement and expression
The longevity of non-surgical rhinoplasty is also dictated by the movement of the nose and surrounding areas. The nose is stable but still moves somewhat when talking, smiling or making other expressions. The tip of the nose, an area that moves and is manipulated often, will most likely absorb the filler faster than the more static parts. Since areas of the face that move more often will need touch-ups sooner than other areas, this is particularly useful to keep in mind when determining how long non-surgical rhinoplasty lasts.
Touch-up treatments
Since the non-surgical rhinoplasty results are temporary, many people are already opting for regular touch-ups. Maintenance treatments are regular maintenance that renews the filler before the body fully absorbs it, prolonging the effect. Some people get a touch-up after 6 months, and others have to come once a year. Regular touch-ups can help maintain the refined and balanced look of the nose for a longer duration of time and can give people the opportunity to attain the benefits of non-surgical rhinoplasty without having to go under the knife.
How to maintain non-surgical rhinoplasty
A few key practices will help to maintain the results of a non-surgical procedure, such as the following.
Do not touch or press on the treated areas for a minimum of 24 hours so that the filler can settle. Hydrate and protect the skin with sunscreen, as UV rays can speed up the breakdown of filler as well. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that cause increased blood flow to the face in the first few days post-treatment. Regular touch-up sessions with your practitioner can also ensure that you maintain the results longer, meaning your nose stays well-defined over the years.
Can non-surgical rhinoplasty do what surgery does?
While non-surgical rhinoplasty can improve the experience of the nose, it cannot fully replace traditional surgery. Although non-surgical remedies can flatten bumps, elevate the nose tip, or fix asymmetries, they cannot solve deeper structural problems that require a change in the actual shape, size, and support of the underlying bone and cartilage.
Ideal for people looking for subtle, temporary changes with minimal side effects and downtime, results will only last a few months, so it is a great introduction to nasal aesthetics without having to resort to the knife. However, for major, permanent changes, traditional rhinoplasty is still the more effective choice.
Book a consultation with Botonics today
Want to improve the contour of your nose non-surgically? Contact Botonics to learn how non-surgical rhinoplasty can help you today! Our highly-trained practitioners take the time to talk to you about what you want and how we can help you achieve those goals with a personalised treatment plan.
For those looking for subtle improvements in their appearance, Botonics provides an answer centred around safety, precision and natural-looking enhancements. Call us today to book your consultation and discover how much better you can look and feel!
William Green
Managing Director - Cert CS, BAdmin, CPA, CMA, MSc