Non-surgical rhinoplasty vs surgical rhinoplasty: how to choose

By Dr. Aaron Stanes

Side-by-side comparison of a womans profile before and after rhinoplasty. The left image shows a prominent nose with a dorsal hump, while the right image shows a smoother, straightened nose. Background is a neutral gray.
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So, you want to change the appearance of your nose and researching your options. One of the key decisions you need to make is whether to reshape your nose with surgery, or choose non-surgical approaches. But it can be a tough decision to make.

Here, we will break down the most important things you must consider before deciding between a surgical nose job and a non-surgical rhinoplasty.

 

What is a non-surgical rhinoplasty?

A non-surgical rhinoplasty is a non-invasive treatment that uses various methods to change the shape of your nose. Treatments typically take 10-20 minutes, and have short recovery periods, characterised by mild redness and swelling which typically settles in days for most people. These options do not change the underlying structure of your nose, and provide temporary results.

 

What is a surgical rhinoplasty?

A surgical rhinoplasty (nose job) is an invasive treatment that changes the appearance of your nose by altering the underlying bone and cartilage structure.

It gives a permanent change, but generally has higher cost, more risk and longer recovery time than non-surgical options.

Importantly, surgery does not stop your nose changing with age, and so the result you get is not the result you will have forever.

 

Things to consider when deciding between nose job surgery and a non-surgical rhinoplasty

Cost

  • Non-surgical rhinoplasty will typically cost $900-$1800 per treatment depending on the experience and skill of the provider.
  • Surgical rhinoplasty typically costs $15,000-$25,000 depending on the surgeon you choose.

Risk

  • Non-surgical rhinoplasty risks include infections and reactions to the various methods.
  • Surgical rhinoplasty has risks that include bleeding, infections, breathing difficulties, and aesthetic deformities. There’s also the risk of general anaesthetic.

Downtime

  • The non-surgical rhinoplasty has short recovery periods, with some slight limitations on activity (you need to take it easy for 24 hours, and avoid pressure on your nose for 5 days). Aftercare is simple and easy to follow.
  • Surgical rhinoplasty has longer downtime. Most people take 2 weeks off work, and swelling can persist for weeks to months.

Results

  • Non-surgical rhinoplasty can address many concerns people have about their nose. It can camouflage bumps, lift and refine a droopy nose tip, define and project a wide nose, and straighten natural crookedness. However there are limitations in how much change is possible. It is also reversible.
  • Surgical rhinoplasty can address almost all aesthetic concerns you may have about your nose.

Longevity

 

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Chat to a clinician to discuss options, confirm suitability, and receive personalised recommendations.

 

Do many people regret their surgical rhinoplasty?

Some studies quote dissatisfaction rates of over to 40% after surgical rhinoplasty.

Revision rates may be around 10%.

 

Is a non-surgical rhinoplasty better than a surgical rhinoplasty?

There are many pros and cons to consider about non-surgical rhinoplasty when deciding if it’s better than surgery. It is a personal decision that must be made after considering the cost, risk, downtime, longevity and permanency of the procedure. A detailed consultation is also critical and always forms part of the decision making process.

Side-by-side comparison of a persons profile before and after non surgical rhinoplasty. The left image shows a nose with a prominent bridge, and the right image shows a smoother, refined nose contour post-surgery.

See more before and after results from non-surgical rhinoplasty.

 

Want to know more about non surgical rhinoplasty?

Read our complete guide to non surgical rhinoplasty in Australia.

Four side-profile photos show two people before and after rhinoplasty. Top row: a woman’s side view before and after surgery. Bottom row: a mans side view before and after surgery. Backgrounds are dark.

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