A celebrity plastic surgeon explains the science behind a quick procedure that can’t reduce the size of the nose, but can disguise bumps and shape it
In the world of cosmetic surgery, fillers are getting a lot of attention right now. Because the treatment, long associated with lip enhancement, is now also used to change the shape of the nose, without having to go through the time-consuming ordeal of rhinoplasty or ‘nose job’.
But what is the non-surgical nose job that has become the latest trend on social media and beyond? We asked renowned New York-based plastic surgeon Dr Lara Devgan for the details.
Before we begin, you should note one important thing: Do your research before choosing a nose filler specialist, as no two noses are the same and your specialist should have worked on many patients before you.
Surgical 3D anatomy and operating room expertise are critical to safely and effectively performing a nonsurgical rhinoplasty, says Dr. Devgan.
The basics
A surgical correction for the nose offers a permanent solution, however, finding the time to stop surgery can be difficult, which is why many patients opt for a non-surgical correction done with the help of fillers, says Dr. Devgan, also founder of Dr. Lara Devgan Skincare.
“This look for the nose is not one size fits all. Everyone has a different unique anatomical structure and based on this all noses are not meant to look the same. It is so important to approach cosmetic procedures with a well-informed and realistic mindset,” says Dr. Devgan.
Non-surgical rhinoplasty uses a filler to fill out areas of the nose to create a specific look and shape or to correct the natural appearance of the nose’s bone structure.
“Many patients come in wanting to soften the appearance of their dorsal hump or lift their drooping limb. Non-surgical rhinoplasty allows a person to lift the bridge and improve the nasal tip, while improving the contour and symmetry of their nose,” he says.
In addition to fillers, a neuromodulator can also be injected into the depressed nasal septums (DNS) to temporarily improve the tip of the nose. The effects of a neuromodulator injected into the DNS are temporary and last three to four months.
“By injecting a neuromodulator into the DNS, it can weaken the action of the muscles that pull the vertex when patients smile. This procedure creates a lift of the nasal tip, creating a more youthful and refreshed appearance. This can also help improve the symmetry of the nose which may be due to muscle imbalances,” explains Dr Devgan.
Filler injections come in several types. Dr Devgan prefers microdroplet injections, which require minimal filler for visible results without adding a significant amount of bulk to the nose. “Because of this, the nose appears to stay the same size, as the amount of filler in each scattered area is quite minimal,” says Dr. Devgan.
A non-surgical rhinoplasty takes minutes to perform, lasts one to two years, and requires no time off work or social functions. Normal activity can be resumed the next day.
“Each patient metabolizes the filler at a different rate, but we recommend that patients come in every six to eight months for a check-up and for possible maintenance. The most common risks associated with this procedure include bruising, swelling and redness, which will go away on their own in a few days after the procedure,” explains the specialist.
Dara Vora Shabnani is a journalist based in Mumbai.
