The rise of the ‘liquid nose job’, or non-surgical rhinoplasty, is quickly becoming the go-to choice for those looking for a quick, minimally invasive alternative to traditional nose surgery.
Gone are the days when reshaping your nose meant going under the knife and enduring a lengthy recovery.
Now, with liquid rhinoplasty, you can refine and reshape your nose in just minutes using dermal fillers – no surgery required.
So, what should you expect from this trendy tweakment? And what questions should you be asking before diving in?
Alice Henshaw, owner of Harley Street Injectables clinic and Skincycles skincare, shares her expert advice…
Can filler make the nose look smaller?
‘Adding volume to the nose might sound counterintuitive, but in reality, it can actually make the nose appear more refined and balanced,’ says Alice.
‘By strategically placing filler, we can smooth out bumps, lift a drooping tip, or create better symmetry, all of which can make the nose look smaller and more harmonious with the rest of the face.’
Before and after: The procedure is quick and straightforward, taking only 15-30 minutes
How long do the results last?
When considering fillers, it’s important to understand how long the results will last. ‘The results typically last 12 to 18 months, but this depends on the type of filler used and individual metabolism,’ says Alice.
‘Hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm gradually dissolve over time. Some people may see results fading sooner, while others retain them for longer.’
Understanding the risks
While fillers can deliver amazing results, it’s important to understand that no procedure is completely risk-free. Alice emphasised, ‘like any injectable treatment, there are risks,’ but reassured that when performed by a skilled injector, complications are rare.
She continued, ‘the most serious risk is vascular occlusion, where the filler accidentally enters a blood vessel, which can lead to skin damage.’ Other potential risks include asymmetry, bruising, swelling, and filler migration. ‘This is why choosing a skilled medical practitioner is essential,’ says Alice.
Is the procedure painful?
‘Most patients find it very tolerable,’ says Alice. ‘The Juvederm fillers contain lidocaine (a numbing agent), and we can also use a topical numbing cream beforehand. You might feel slight pressure or pinching, but it’s significantly less painful than a surgical rhinoplasty.’
What to expect during and after treatment
Alice explains that the procedure is relatively quick and straightforward. ‘The procedure takes about 15-30 minutes,’ says Alice.
‘There might be minor swelling, redness, or bruising for a few days. You can go back to normal activities immediately, but I recommend avoiding glasses, excessive pressure, or strenuous exercise for 48 hours.’
Where are the key injection sites?
‘Bridge of the nose – to straighten a bump or build height,’ says Alice. ‘Tip of the nose – to add projection and lift. Columella (base of the nose) – to enhance tip support. These sites are strategically targeted to achieve a balanced and natural-looking nose enhancement.’
Real results: It’s important to manage expectations when considering fillers for cosmetic concerns
Can I wear glasses after the procedure?
‘It’s best to avoid wearing glasses for at least 1-2 weeks to prevent pressure on the filler,’ explains Alice. ‘Which could cause it to shift. If necessary, lightweight frames or taping the glasses above the bridge can help.’
How much does a liquid nose job?
‘Prices typically range from £850 to £1,000 depending on the injector’s experience, clinic location, and type of filler used.’
Can it fix a crooked nose?
It’s important to manage expectations when considering fillers for cosmetic concerns. ‘Yes, filler can camouflage asymmetry, making a crooked nose look straighter,’ says Alice.
‘However, it doesn’t actually correct the underlying bone or cartilage structure- so in severe cases, surgery might still be the best option, in which case we would refer our client to our in-clinic plastic surgeon.’
Alice Henshaw, owner of Harley Street Injectables clinic and Skincycles skincare (pictured)
What if I don’t like the results?
The good news is that hyaluronic acid fillers are reversible. ‘If you’re unhappy with the outcome, we can dissolve the filler with hyaluronidase, usually within a few days. Minor adjustments can also be made to refine the results,’ explains Alice.
She added: ‘A liquid nose job offers a quick, non-invasive way to enhance nasal shape and symmetry with minimal downtime. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, proper research and selecting a skilled practitioner are key to achieving the best results.’