Change of nasal contour

Non Surgical Rhinoplasty in Perth

Non-surgical rhinoplasty may be an option for patients seeking to address specific nasal aesthetic concerns, such as a small dorsal hump or asymmetry of the tip. This treatment involves the use of dermal fillers, which can help in changing the nasal contour without surgery.  What cannot be achieved is reduction in the size of the nose, refinement of the nasal tip, or overall change in the shape of the nose.

Non-surgical rhinoplasty requires a detailed understanding of surgical nasal anatomy. Dr. Imani is highly trained in both Ear, Nose, and Throat Surgery and has post fellowship training in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, with in depth expertise in various rhinoplasty techniques and facial filler treatments.  If seeking a practitioner, ask yourself this question: "has my chosen practitioner operated on the nose, are they familiar with the structures and vascular anatomy of the nose? how many times have they dissected and operated  on a nose?" 

This procedure is performed at our Claremont clinic. A topical anaesthetic is applied before a small needle is used to inject the filler material beneath the deep skin layer of the nose. The discomfort associated with the procedure is often well tolerated with the use of topical anaesthesia, and recovery is over 1-4 weeks. Most patients are able to return to their usual activities in 2-7 days.

Mild swelling, if it occurs, is typically minor and resolves within a few weeks. Pain medication is generally not required following the procedure.

What are the risks involved in non surgical rhinoplasty:

Common and Usually Mild Side Effects

1. Swelling

• Mild swelling at or near the injection sites.

• Usually resolves within 7 days.

2. Bruising

• Very common due to the vascular nature of the nose.

• Typically mild and temporary (resolves within 1–2 weeks).

3. Redness or Tenderness

• Localised skin irritation is expected after injection.

• Usually fades within a few days.

4. Minor Asymmetry

• Uneven results may occur and might require minor adjustments.

Moderate Risks

5. Lumps or Nodules

• May form due to uneven filler placement or product accumulation.

• Sometimes managed with massage or hyaluronidase (for HA fillers).

6. Overcorrection or Under-Correction

• Too much or too little filler may result in dissatisfaction with appearance.

7. Tyndall Effect

• A bluish tint under the skin from superficial placement of hyaluronic acid.

• More likely in thin-skinned individuals; may require enzyme treatment.

8. Skin Texture Changes

• Filler may create visible or palpable irregularities in the nasal contour.

Serious and Rare Risks

9. Vascular Occlusion

• Most serious risk due to the dense and complex blood supply of the nose.

• Filler can accidentally enter a blood vessel, blocking blood flow and causing:

o Skin necrosis (tissue death)

o Severe pain and discolouration

o Scarring

Prompt treatment with hyaluronidase, warm compresses, and possibly aspirin is essential.

10. Blindness

• Extremely rare but catastrophic complication.

• Occurs when filler is inadvertently injected into arteries that connect to the ophthalmic artery, such as:

o Dorsal nasal artery

o Angular artery

Vision loss is often sudden and irreversible, and it’s a medical emergency. Even with immediate intervention, recovery is not guaranteed.

11. Infection

• Rare with sterile technique.

• May present with redness, swelling, heat, or pus at the site.

• May progress to cellulitis or abscess if untreated.

12. Allergic Reaction

• Very rare with HA-based fillers but can include:

o Rash, itching, swelling

o Anaphylaxis (extremely rare)

13. Granuloma or Delayed Inflammatory Reactions

• Can occur weeks or months after injection.

• May present as hard lumps or persistent swelling.

• Usually treated with steroids or hyaluronidase.

Delayed or Long-Term Risks

14. Migration of Filler

• Filler may shift from the original site over time.

• Can result in asymmetry or visible irregularity.

15. Skin Thinning or Discolouration

• Repeated injections may lead to textural skin changes, especially with overuse.

16. Scarring

• Rare but possible if the skin is compromised by necrosis or trauma.

Patient-Specific Risk Factors

Increased risk may occur in:

• Thin skin over the nasal bridge

• History of nasal trauma or surgery

• Smokers (higher risk of poor tissue perfusion)

• Patients with autoimmune or vascular disease

• Injections by untrained or unlicensed providers

Risk Minimisation Strategies

• Ensure the procedure is performed by a qualified medical practitioner with deep knowledge of facial and vascular anatomy.

• Use only TGA-approved dermal fillers.

Important Considerations

• Non-surgical rhinoplasty cannot correct functional issues (e.g., breathing problems).

• Results are temporary—usually lasting 9–18 months depending on the filler used.

• Informed consent is crucial, especially due to the risk of vision loss and skin necrosis, which must be clearly explained.

If you're considering a change to your nose but prefer a non-invasive option, non-surgical rhinoplasty could be a suitable solution for you.

For more information about rhinoplasty options, including reconstructive and functional rhinoplasty, or to enquire about non-surgical rhinoplasty in Perth, please contact us today.

See below for more information about Rhinoplasty

Reconstructive Rhinoplasty

Functional Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty Specialist

Click here to contact us for more information about non surgical rhinoplasty in Perth.

Important Information and Disclaimers:

• Any surgical or non-surgical procedure carries risks.

•  Individual outcomes, results, experience and recovery times vary based on individual’s genetics, environmental factors, diet, exercise, sun protection, smoking and general health. Individual’s outcomes are only relevant for that individual and they do not necessarily reflect or guarantee the same outcome for another individual given the same treatment.

•  The information provided is general and educational in nature.

•  It does not constitute medical advice nor replace consultation with a qualified health professional.

•  We encourage all patients to seek a second opinion and consult their general practitioner for a referral before engaging in a surgical and non-surgical consultation with us.

Still have questions?

Contact us to arrange your consultation with Dr Imani.