Surgical and Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty: What’s the Difference?

Many people who are unhappy with how their noses look go to cosmetic experts for help. Some want to change prominent noses, while others wish fixes for minor issues like bumps.

Fortunately, there are different types of rhinoplasty procedures tailored to each person. They use various methods, like reshaping the nose cartilage or correcting breathing problems. One surgical type offers lasting results but requires a long recovery. The non-surgical procedure gives quick results with less discomfort.

Understanding surgical and non-surgical options can help you choose the most suitable approach. This blog aims to help you navigate the differences between these nasal procedures. With more information, you can decide which one aligns best with your aesthetic goals.

How Does Surgical Rhinoplasty Work?

In surgical rhinoplasty, the surgeon administers general anesthesia to the client. Then, they make cuts either inside the nostrils (closed rhinoplasty) or across the columella and inside the nostrils (open rhinoplasty). These cuts let the surgeon access the nasal bones and cartilage.

Once the cuts are made, the surgeon can reshape the nasal bones and cartilage to enhance the nose's appearance. This might involve removing or adding tissue, moving bone or cartilage, or refining the nasal tip. The surgeon might also fix any structural issues that make breathing difficult.

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Benefits of surgical rhinoplasty

• Improves breathing by addressing structural issues, such as a deviated septum or nasal valve collapse
• Rhinoplasty surgery offers accurate changes to the nose's shape and structure
• Provides improvements you can enjoy for many years

Candidates 

Nasal surgery is suitable for achieving a more balanced and proportionate nasal appearance. While the procedure requires cuts and stitches, it provides significant and long-lasting results for aesthetic concerns. 

How Does Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty Work?

Non-surgical rhinoplasty involves injecting dermal fillers into specific areas of the nose. First, the healthcare provider cleans the treatment area and may apply numbing cream. Then, a hyaluronic acid filler is injected into the nose to reshape and improve symmetry.

The physician monitors the injection process to ensure accuracy. Afterward, clients can usually go back to their normal activities right away. Also known as filler rhinoplasty, this non-invasive procedure does not require general anesthesia.

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Benefits of non-surgical rhinoplasty

• It's a quick procedure, making it convenient for busy people.
• Results are instant, improving nose shape right away.
• Compared to nose surgery types, this one doesn't need cuts or stitches.
• Clients can go back to their usual activities right after the procedure.

Candidates 

If your main goal is to address minor aesthetic issues in your nose and achieve a straighter profile without nose surgery, choose the non-invasive rhinoplasty. This intervention provides subtle yet noticeable improvements to your nose without surgery or a lengthy recovery time.

Comparison of Surgical and Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty

For first-timers, the prospect of getting a nose job may cause some confusion, such as the "rhinoplasty vs. nose job" comparison. Essentially, these two terms refer to the same procedure—rhinoplasty is colloquially known as a nose job. The notable difference lies in whether it's surgical or non-surgical.

Here are some points of comparison between surgical and non-surgical rhinoplasty:

Scarring

Surgical rhinoplasty may leave scars, especially with open rhinoplasty. Non-surgical rhinoplasty doesn't cause scars because there are no cuts.

Reversibility

Surgeons can undo non-surgical rhinoplasty results by dissolving fillers. On the other hand, surgical rhinoplasty results are permanent and changeable only with more surgery.

Customization

Surgical rhinoplasty, with its direct adjustment of nasal structures, offers a level of precision that non-surgical rhinoplasty might not be able to match. 

Complex Cases

Surgical rhinoplasty is better for major changes to nasal structures, while non-surgical rhinoplasty is best for minor improvements.

Recovery 

Consider the recovery periods of nasal enhancement procedures. For surgical rhinoplasty, recovery periods vary among clients.

• Right After: Expect swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Pain meds and cold packs can help.
• First Week: Most go home the same day but should rest and avoid strenuous activities. Expect nasal congestion and mild discomfort.
• Splint Removal: Usually done after about a week, allowing you to see initial results.
• Swelling: It may last weeks, but most go away within a few months. 
• Back to Normal: You can typically return to work or school within 1–2 weeks. Avoid heavy activities for a few weeks.
• Final Results: Full results will show up once the swelling has gone down fully, which may take several months to a year. Expect your nose to keep improving in appearance and function as you heal.

On the other hand, non-surgical rhinoplasty clients enjoy a shorter recovery time:

• Right After: Expect slight swelling or bruising at injection spots, but it usually goes away in a few days.
• Back to Normal: You can generally resume your regular activities immediately, such as work or exercise.
• Results: There are immediate improvements. The final results might change over a few days as the swelling decreases and the filler settles.
• Follow-Up: You might need follow-up appointments to check results and do touch-ups.

Results

The duration of results from non-surgical nose procedures varies depending on the type of filler used and the injection location, lasting from six months to 18 years. For surgical procedures, the nose's shape will change for several months as it settles into its new shape. It's essential to be patient as final results may take up to a year to become more noticeable.

How Do I Choose between Surgical and Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty?

When choosing between the two options, discuss your expectations with the healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment. Talk over any concerns or pre-existing conditions to ensure the safest treatment plan for you.

Follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions to reduce the chance of experiencing rhinoplasty side effects. Be proactive about informing the care staff when you start feeling symptoms.   

Ask your surgeon or provider before undergoing either procedure:

• What are the risks and benefits of the procedure?
• What is the expected recovery time?
• Can you show me before-and-after photos of similar cases?
• What are the potential complications, and how are they managed?
• How many of these procedures have you performed?
• Are there any alternative treatments I should consider?
• What should I expect during and after the surgery?
• What results can I realistically expect?

Enhance Your Confidence with Rhinoplasty

If you want to enhance the appearance of your nose, you have two exciting options: surgical and non-surgical rhinoplasty. Both procedures aim to boost your satisfaction with your nose’s appearance. Understanding the differences should help you make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle.

As the premier provider of plastic surgery in Bluffton, SC, we are here to help you make the best choice for your unique needs. At Hilton Head Plastic Surgery & MedSpa, Dr. Reid and our team will guide you through surgical and non-surgical rhinoplasty with compassion and confidence.

Take a proactive step towards your aesthetic goals by scheduling a personalized consultation with us today.

Sources:

1. Fichman, Matias, and Ignacio T. Piedra Buena. “Rhinoplasty.” StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf, 12 June 2023, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558970.
2. Hall, Suzel S, and Theda C Kontis. "Nonsurgical rhinoplasty." World Journal of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, vol. 9,3, 212-219, 2 Jul. 2023, doi: 10.1002/wjo2.104.
3. “What to Expect From Rhinoplasty Recovery.” University of California San Francisco. ohns.ucsf.edu/facialplastics/what-expect-rhinoplasty-recovery.