Other associated terms: Non-Surgical Nose Job, 5-Minute Nose Job.
Overview
The non-surgical rhinoplasty is a relatively non-invasive procedure that provides a simple technique to improve the aesthetic look of your nose. This is a newer technique which was originally created by Dr. Steven 
Mulholland of Toronto, Canada and it can address imperfections, for example, by lifting and straightening the tip of your nose or by hiding unwanted bumps. It can also be used to correct minor issues associated with facial symmetry, such as a deviated nasal bridge.
This is achieved by injecting a filler (such as Juvederm™ or Radiesse™), at precise points on the nose. This technique provides a more safe and simple alternative to traditional surgical rhinoplasty with its’ potential risks and complications.
Benefits
A more balanced facial appearance can add to positive self-esteem without drastically altering your appearance. The overall definition and nasal bridge height can be improved to provide a more pleasing facial profile. In general, injection rhinoplasty can achieve: improved symmetry, correction of a prior surgical rhinoplasty, elimination (or reduction) of dents or depressions in the nose.
Patient Characteristics
Potential candidates should be in good health, physically and psychologically and who understand the limitations of the procedure thus having realistic expectations of the end result. Those seeking this procedure should have minor nose imperfections and would like a simpler, less invasive approach to enhancing their appearance. This will include those who might have a mild irregularity but don’t want to change the actual size of their nose or attempt to correct breathing problems.
Procedure
Initially, the nose area is cleaned, disinfected and a local anesthetic is applied. Sometimes a sedative is administered orally, as well, in order to relax the patient. Once the anesthetic takes effect, tiny applications of dermal fillers (such as Juvederm™ or Radiesse™) are injected to specific locations, in order to fill them out. The small amounts of filler are injected with a technique known as “microdroplet” which will give the doctor minute control over the amount of filler used.
Ultimately, this procedure requires several applications with a month to six week period of time between sessions. The reason for this has to do with the way the injectable filler material works. After each application, the natural defenses of the body work to encapsulate each tiny droplet of filler material. In the end, it’s the tissue that forms around the droplets that will create the volume needed to perform the changes desired. Because of this, it takes a certain amount of time to be able to judge the results of each session.
Recovery
Most patients can resume normal activities directly after the procedure (such as returning to work). The recovery usually just involves a short period of slight swelling and redness. You will also be advised to avoid eyeglasses and sunglasses that are heavy, for a period of two weeks following each procedure. It’s the lack of an extended, complex recovery period that gives this procedure its’ greatest appeal.
Risks Associated with Injection Rhinoplasty
The main thing to consider, is whether or not your needs can be addressed with an injectable rhinoplasty. It’s possible that your situation may require a traditional surgical rhinoplasty approach. It’s for this reason that your should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can accurately make this determination
The other consideration is the type of filler that is used for the procedure. Temporary fillers, such as Radiesse™, will require on-going treatments which can be expensive, in the long run. However, they are perfect for a trial run of the technique in order to determine the acceptability of the results.
While more permanent fillers, such as ArteFill™ or silicone can be more cost effective, the downside is that their permanence can be an issue if the results are not satisfactory. If you are seeking a permanent filler procedure, it’s extremely important that you choose a highly qualified, experienced surgeon.
Other risks may include sensitivity to the injectable material or anesthetic. Infection is a possibility and can be treated with antibiotics. Nasal skin damage can also occur along with possible unsatisfactory appearance results. Silicone injections can carry the risk of material migration (movement of the silicone to a different part of the body).
Procedure Costs
Injectable rhinoplasty is less expensive than the average surgical nose job, which can run $4,000 - $8,000. The actual cost, though, will depend on the amount and type of filler and the experience level of the doctor. The average procedure requires 2 cc of filler and runs $1,500 for the more temporary fillers while more permanent filler procedures can cost $2,000 or more.
Things to Discuss with Your Surgeon During Your Consultation
During the initial consultation, with your doctor, you may wish to ask questions regarding the actual injection procedures, costs and reasonable final expectations. The procedural questions might be; how are the injections done? What are the pros and cons of temporary fillers vs. permanent fillers? How long do the temporary filler injection results last? What are the possible issues associated with permanent filler injections. What are the total costs of the procedure(s)? Is financing available (if needed)?