Non surgical nose reshaping has become more common over the past few years, especially among those who are looking to alter the appearance of their nose without undergoing traditional rhinoplasty.
However, despite how often it’s discussed online and in clinics, there’s still some misunderstandings around what the procedure actually involves, how it works, and what it can and can’t do.
In this blog, we’ll look at some of the more common myths surrounding non surgical nose reshaping and break down what’s actually true and what may have been taken out of context.
Myth 1: Non-surgical nose treatments are just volume-adding treatments, like any other
This is one of the more frequent assumptions made about non surgical nose reshaping – that it’s just a standard volume-adding treatment, no different from treating the lips or cheeks.
However, while the same ingredient may be involved, the approach is not interchangeable with other areas of the face. The nose has its own unique structure, made up of cartilage, soft tissue, and bone, and its vascular anatomy is more complex than many people realise.
This means that the product needs to be placed with a more technical understanding of depth, pressure and placement. The treatment typically focuses on specific parts of the nose, like the bridge or tip, and aims to create a more even or refined shape through precise volume placement.
The way that added volume behaves in the nose can also differ slightly from other areas, as movement is more limited, and the skin is generally firmer and thicker.
So, although technically the same product is used, the method of use and overall intention of treatment is quite different.
Myth 2: The treatment can make the nose smaller
This is probably one of the more persistent myths – that volume-adding treatments can somehow make the nose appear smaller or reduce the size overall.
In reality, non surgical nose reshaping works by adding small amounts of volume in targeted areas. By doing so, it can alter the contour or angle of the nose, which might create the illusion of a smaller nose, but it isn’t removing anything or making the nose physically smaller.
The shape may appear straighter or more even from the side profile, and in some cases, this can give the impression that the nose looks more symmetrical and although volume is added, it may not be a cause of concern for patients to slightly increase size.
Myth 3: There’s no downtime at all after the treatment
It’s common to hear that non surgical nose reshaping doesn’t involve any downtime, and while it’s true that you won’t need weeks off work or recovery time in the same way you would after surgery, that doesn’t mean there are no physical effects after the treatment.
Straight after the procedure, it’s not unusual for there to be some redness, and mild swelling. These are usually temporary, and most people are able to return to their normal day not long after, but that doesn’t mean you can ignore aftercare altogether.
It’s still important that you avoid applying pressure to the area for a certain amount of time, and you may be advised to avoid certain activities such as wearing glasses, going to the gym, or lying on your face. While the recovery is much shorter than with surgical rhinoplasty, there are still physical considerations to be aware of.
Myth 4: The treatment is an exact replacement for surgical rhinoplasty
Non surgical nose reshaping can make noticeable changes to the shape of the nose, particularly for issues like minor dorsal humps or asymmetries in the bridge. However, it’s not a replacement for a surgical rhinoplasty, and it won’t be suitable for every concern.
Surgery is still the only way to remove cartilage or bone, narrow the nostrils, or reduce the width or projection of the nose. If you’re looking for a smaller or more lifted nose tip, or your concerns are related to breathing and structural issues, volume-adding treatments may not be able to address those.
That’s why it’s important that there’s a clear understanding of what each procedure can achieve. Non surgical reshaping may be a good temporary option for certain surface-level changes, but it doesn’t offer the same range of results that surgery can.
Myth 5: The results will last for years
Another common belief is that the results of non surgical nose reshaping will last for years. Some people assume that because the added volume doesn’t move much in the nose, it must just stay there indefinitely.
However, while it can last longer than in other areas of the face, the product will still gradually break down and be reabsorbed by the body over time.
On average, results tend to last anywhere from 12 to 18 months, although this can vary depending on the type of treatment used, your metabolism, and the amount placed. For those who want to maintain their results over the longer term, repeated treatments will likely be needed.
Sometimes, the way the added volume sits in the nose can subtly change over time, which may mean that adjustments might be needed to maintain the original shape.
Myth 6: The procedure is low risk because it’s non-surgical
While there are no incisions or anaesthetics involved, it’s still a medical procedure, and it still carries physical risks.
Calling the treatment a “quick fix” often oversimplifies what’s actually involved. While the procedure may not take long, there’s still a level of care, planning, and technique that need to go into achieving a good result.
Due to the vascular structure of the nose, there’s a higher risk of certain complications if the added volume is placed incorrectly or placed too forcefully. This is why the technique used is so important, and why a careful, precise approach is necessary.
Choosing someone with specific experience in non surgical nose reshaping, not just in general volume-adding treatments, is an important step forward in ensuring that the procedure is approached with a full understanding of the technical side of the nose.
Non-Surgical Nose Reshaping with Dr Scott: Experienced Brisbane Cosmetic Physician
With over 20 years of experience in aesthetic medicine and general practice, Dr Scott Horsburgh is a cosmetic doctor with a passion for achieving quality results.
During a consultation with Dr Scott in Brisbane, you can clarify any other aspects of the non-surgical nose reshaping treatment that we haven’t covered here, and learn about how the treatment can be tailored to suit your goals.
Please feel free to reach out to our team to book your consultation.