The nose is the centre point of the face and one of the first things that are noticed when people see us, however, many people are often unhappy with their nose; they may have a bump, asymmetry, or drooping.. 

What can be done about this? The two main options are non-surgical rhinoplasty (also known as ‘liquid nose-job’) or surgical rhinoplasty. 

Read on as we compare Non-surgical rhinoplasty vs Surgical Rhinoplasty across price, recovery and results!

Non-surgical rhinoplasty is a very common cosmetic procedure. It uses a natural dermal filler called Hyaluronic acid to achieve the look of a ‘nose job’ without patients having to undergo actual surgery. The dermal filler is used to add volume and reduce the appearance of bumps on the nose bridge, achieving the appearance of a slimmer and more lifted nose.

It is a complex operation, manipulating the nasal bone or cartilage, under general anaesthetics. It is a good option if you need to improve the function of your nose due to breathing difficulties or snoring. 

There is a much longer recovery period of up to 8 weeks with the surgical nose job compared to the liquid nose job, which is a very quick procedure taking roughly 15-25 minutes and you can return to work the same day. 

Surgical rhinoplasty is carried out under general anaesthetics – a big risk! The nose bone is broken or altered which can lead to increased bruising, swelling, bleeding, and infection. 

The non-surgical rhinoplasty carries risks including vascular occlusion, where filler blocks a vessel, and minor bruising post-treatment, however, it carries a smaller risk compared with nose surgery. 

Non-surgical nose job is a lot cheaper than the surgical procedure. The surgical procedure in the UK often costs £4-8k depending on the surgeon. Whereas the filler procedure is generally £400-800. 

But remember the surgical procedure is a one off cost whereas you need yearly top ups with the non-surgical option

Surgical rhinoplasty is permanent – good if you like the result. However, if the result is not what you want you may need revision surgeries costing more and carrying more risks. 

Non-surgical rhinoplasty is a temporary treatment, lasts on average 12 months. 

People often get top-ups 8 to 10 months post-procedure. This is an excellent choice for you if you’re looking for a subtle change or if you are not ready to commit to a big surgical operation but want to achieve the same look. 

There is no doubt that a surgical rhinoplasty can make your nose smaller and solve functional problems.  It can also straighten your nose from the front profile which filler cannot do.

The non-surgical nose job is a more cosmetic procedure and focuses on enhancing the side profile by filling in bumps and raising the top. Although it is adding filler it can make your nose appear smaller.

Overall  when comparing the non-surgical rhinoplasty vs surgical rhinoplasty the treatment option depends on what your requirements are. For most people, non surgical rhinoplasty is better due to fewer risks, shorter recovery, and much cheaper. 

Some people might need a surgical procedure if their requirements are complicated.