What Is a Nose Injection & How Much Does It Cost?

Author

Dr. Stephen Cosentino

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that “enhances facial harmony and the proportions of your nose.” It’s commonly referred to as a nose job by patients and some providers.

Historically, rhinoplasty procedures required invasive cutting and grafting. Most prospective patients still assume that the only type of rhinoplasty is surgical rhinoplasty — surgical nose jobs.

But that’s no longer true. Nonsurgical rhinoplasty, also known as liquid rhinoplasty, is a less invasive, less expensive, and less dangerous alternative to plastic surgery. Here’s what you must know to decide if this procedure is right for you.

Liquid Nose Job: An Alternative to Traditional Rhinoplasty

Nonsurgical rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure performed by a plastic surgeon or other licensed medical professional who has completed an accredited nose injection training course.

The provider administers injectable dermal fillers (most often hyaluronic acid) and occasionally Botox® to the tip of the nose. They smooth out bumps, lumps, and other imperfections and temporarily make the appearance of the nose smaller.

What to Expect From a Nonsurgical Nose Job Procedure

A nonsurgical nose job is similar to other minimally invasive cosmetic injection procedures.

First, you’ll discuss your circumstances and objectives with your provider, including how you’d like to alter the shape of the nose. They’ll determine whether you’re a good fit for the procedure and, if so, how to proceed. You’ll go into your procedure appointment with a full treatment plan.

During the procedure, your provider will inject topical anesthetic into the treatment area. They’ll then inject soft tissue filler into the nasal tip and sometimes Botox into the depressor septi nasi muscle. The combined effect should lift the nose tip and subtly reshape the nose.

The entire procedure should take no more than 45 minutes. You can go back to work the same day and resume normal activity within 24 to 48 hours.

Liquid Rhinoplasty Results: How Long They Last

Liquid rhinoplasty has one big downside when compared to traditional, surgical rhinoplasty: its results don’t last forever.

Exactly how long they last depends on the type of nose job. Nose tip Botox results typically last 3 to 4 months. Hyaluronic acid fillers last a bit longer, generally 6 to 12 months. But in all cases, you’ll need to return to your provider for occasional touch-ups.

Side Effects and Other Cautions

Liquid rhinoplasty is much lower risk than traditional rhinoplasty. Its side effects are generally mild and temporary. Some people experience minor swelling, soreness, or general discomfort around the injection area, usually for no more than a few days after the procedure.

More serious side effects are rare. They include:

Infection in or near the injection site
Allergic reaction
Blood clots and other complications caused by injection into larger blood vessels
Muscle weakness, incontinence, and other systemic issues caused by improper Botox injection

Your plastic surgeon should explain these potential side effects and complications in detail, and should instruct you as to when it’s appropriate to seek medical attention. Most side effects resolve within days, but systemic side effects require immediate treatment.