Septoplasty vs. Rhinoplasty: Which Nose Surgery Is Right for You?
Deciding between septoplasty vs. rhinoplasty or a combination procedure can be challenging, especially if you're unsure…Read On
TLKM Plastic Surgery
737 North Michigan Avenue #1500
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: (312) 788-2560
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Tuesday: 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
Board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Thomas Mustoe and Dr. Sammy Sinno believe in providing patients with the most effective, long-lasting, and safe solutions for facial enhancement. While liquid rhinoplasty—also known as a non surgical nose job—has become a popular “quick fix” for reshaping the nose, both surgeons advise patients to approach this procedure with caution. Most patients achieve better, safer, longer-lasting results with surgical rhinoplasty.
What Is a Liquid Rhinoplasty?
A liquid rhinoplasty involves injecting dermal fillers, typically hyaluronic acid-based products, into the nose to camouflage imperfections, raise the nasal bridge, or improve symmetry. While it can create subtle improvements, the changes are temporary and may be accompanied by risks and limitations that shouldn’t be underestimated.
Why We Don’t Typically Recommend Liquid Rhinoplasty
Dr. Mustoe and Dr. Sinno have performed thousands of surgical rhinoplasties and remain highly selective when recommending nonsurgical options. Here’s why they do not routinely recommend liquid rhinoplasty at their Chicago practice:
- It increases nose size. Fillers add volume, which may hide a bump but can also ultimately make the nose larger, not smaller or more refined.
- Results are temporary. To maintain their appearance, patients must return for repeat injections every 6 to 12 months.
- Costs add up. Over time, the cumulative cost of filler can exceed that of a permanent surgical nose job.
- It complicates future surgery. Fillers may cause scarring and distortion that make surgical correction more complex.
- There are serious risks. Liquid rhinoplasty carries the rare but serious risk of vascular occlusion or tissue necrosis, which can lead to skin loss or even blindness if not treated immediately.
For patients seeking subtle refinements, we instead recommend fat transfer as a safe, natural alternative to enhance nasal contours.
Chicago's
Premier Plastic Surgeons
Dr. Thomas Mustoe and Dr. Sammy Sinno are board-certified plastic surgeons renowned in Chicago and beyond for their unparalleled expertise, refined surgical techniques, and exceptional patient outcomes. Together, they set the gold standard in plastic surgery treatment and care, delivering:
- Safe, best-in-class protocols
- Minimal scarring and bruising
- Customized, natural-looking results
- Faster, more comfortable recovery
- Use of local anesthesia with sedation
- State-of-the-art Facility
Are There Situations Where Liquid Rhinoplasty Is Appropriate?
In highly selected cases—such as minor touch-ups after a surgical rhinoplasty—Dr. Sinno may consider using filler to fine-tune results. However, for patients considering liquid rhinoplasty as a standalone alternative to surgery, both surgeons advise a comprehensive consultation to explore more effective, lasting solutions.
Liquid Rhinoplasty vs. Surgical Rhinoplasty
A nonsurgical nose job typically involves:
- Application of a topical anesthetic for comfort
- Precise injection of hyaluronic acid filler into targeted areas
- Immediately visible changes in contour and symmetry
The treatment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes and requires no downtime, but the simplicity of the procedure often overshadows its risks and limitations.
It’s also essential to point out that liquid rhinoplasty is not a suitable alternative for patients seeking highly specialized nose jobs such as ethnic rhinoplasty or revision rhinoplasty. These nose job techniques require advanced surgical skill, precision, and more downtime but deliver transformative, long-lasting results.
Recovery and Results
Nonsurgical nose job results are visible right away, with mild swelling or redness around the injection sites that typically resolve within a few days. Most patients return to daily activities immediately. However, results usually last only 6 to 12 months, and repeated treatments are necessary to maintain your desired look.
How Much Is a Liquid Rhinoplasty in Chicago, IL?
According to RealSelf.com, the cost of a liquid rhinoplasty in Chicago can be in the thousands of dollars. This varies per treatment depending on the type and amount of filler used. While the initial price may seem attractive compared to surgery, costs can quickly surpass that of a traditional rhinoplasty with maintenance sessions needed every 6 to 12 months. We offer convenient payment and financing resources that make paying for your dream nose more affordable.
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Nonsurgical Nose Job FAQs
Is liquid rhinoplasty safe?
While a nonsurgical nose job is generally safe in experienced hands, the procedure carries certain rare yet serious risks and side effects, including vascular compromise, skin necrosis, or even blindness. During your private consultation, Dr. Mustoe and Dr. Sinno help you thoroughly explore and understand your treatment options.
Can filler make my nose look smaller?
While fillers may trick the eye somewhat, they add volume, ultimately making your nose bigger. They may bring better balance to certain nasal proportions or draw attention away from a flaw, but they do not reduce the size of the nose.
Is fat grafting a better alternative?
For suitable candidates, fat grafting offers longer-lasting, more natural-looking results than liquid rhinoplasty with fewer risks and no need for repeated treatments.
Meet With Chicago’s Rhinoplasty Experts
If you’re considering liquid rhinoplasty in Chicago, Illinois, we encourage you to meet with Dr. Mustoe or Dr. Sinno to explore your options. They’ll help you make an informed, confident decision about the best approach for your needs. Please schedule a consultation online or call our practice at (312) 788-2560.
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