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Rhinoplasty, also known as a “nose job” or nose reshaping, is the surgical modification of the shape of the nose. This procedure can be used for purely cosmetic changes, functional improvements, or both. For some people, very subtle changes are desired – and these patients may be candidates for non-surgical rhinoplasty. Some common rhinoplasty goals include removal of a bump (“dorsal hump”) on the bridge of the nose, changes to the shape of the nasal tip, and lifting a droopy or hanging tip. In non-surgical rhinoplasty, small, carefully planned injections of soft-tissue fillers are used to change the shape of the nose.
Non-surgical rhinoplasty is most often performed with Radiesse®. Radiesse® is made of biocompatible calcium hydroxyapatite – a natural component of bone and connective tissue. This filler is relatively firm and matches the strength and feel of the nasal tissues. Radiesse® lasts between 12 and 18 months in this area for most patients, depending on the individual patient’s unique anatomy and metabolism. Using subtle additions of filler, the overall contour of the nose can be dramatically improved. Common techniques include camouflage of a dorsal hump by placement of the filler material above and below the hump and lifting of a droopy nose by addition of filler at the base of the nose (where the nose meets the upper lip). In some cases, subtle changes of the tip shape can be achieved with filler.
As with any injectable treatment, Dr. Ransom strives to provide the most comfortable experience possible. This includes the use of topical numbing creams, mixing numbing medicines into all types of injectable fillers, and providing icepacks after treatment.
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Who is a candidate?
Anyone who desires subtle changes to the external contour of the nose may be a candidate for non-surgical cheek rhinoplasty. Non-surgical rhinoplasty may be performed as a stand-alone procedure or combined with other aesthetic treatments such as Botox® injections or non-surgical chin-augmentation. Non-surgical rhinoplasty does not change the internal structure of the nose and cannot be used to make improvements in nasal breathing; patients interested in such changes should have a consultation for rhinoplasty surgery. The key to any facial enhancement is identifying your aesthetic goals and the most appropriate and comfortable way to achieve them – while still looking natural. Dr. Ransom will work closely with you throughout this process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please note that all patients are different and individual healing times and results may vary. The statements regarding procedures and recovery made here are general rules.
Soft tissue fillers are slowly broken down by the body over time. The duration of effect is dependent on the type of filler used. Dr. Ransom prefers to use longer-lasting and thicker fillers, like Radiesse®, for non-surgical rhinoplasty. This gives a more reliable effect and has a better match to the existing nasal tissues.
This depends on the type of filler used. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers (like Juvederm® and Perlane®) can be dissolved with small doses of an enzyme called hyaluronidase. For Raidesse®, the body slowly dissolves the filler material over time. There is not an enzyme to dissolve this product, but other techniques can be used to speed up the process.
If you have undergone a non-surgical rhinoplasty and like the results, but don’t want to have repeated treatments, there are more permanent options. This would be a rhinoplasty (“nose job” surgery). There are multiple approaches and techniques that can be used to change the shape and function of the nose. A detailed consultation with Dr. Ransom will help you decide on the best approach for you and your nose. During your consultation, computer imaging simulation can be used to show you how different changes may look on you. In all cases, Dr. Ransom seeks to improve the form and function of the nose, while maintaining a natural, non-surgical look.
Dr. Evan Ransom is an Ivy League-educated and Ivy League trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. He is a Double Board Certified Head and Neck Surgeon and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and fellowship-trained in facial plastic, reconstructive, and laser surgery. His practice is in the San Francisco Bay Area, serving patients from San Francisco, Oakland, Marin County, Palo Alto, Silicon Valley, Walnut Creek, the East Bay, and all over Northern California.
