Nose Filler (Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty)

Nose filler (non-surgical rhinoplasty) is a non-surgical medical aesthetic procedure in which a filler is injected to camouflage or correct small irregularities in the shape of the nose. It is also known as medical rhinoplasty.

Nose filler does not make the nose smaller and does not change the bone or cartilage structure; the filler adds volume to hollow or flat areas so that the nose looks smoother. Results vary from person to person.

What Is Nose Filler?

Hyaluronic acid fillers are used most often for nose filler. Hyaluronic acid is a substance found naturally in the body; filler products contain a laboratory-made form of it, which the body breaks down over time. It can be dissolved by the doctor with the enzyme hyaluronidase if needed. Every product used must be approved by the Turkish Ministry of Health.

Nose filler is most often considered in the following situations:

• A depression at the root of the nose, where the nose meets the forehead
• Camouflaging a small hump on the bridge of the nose
• Small irregularities and asymmetries on the bridge of the nose
• Supporting the tip of the nose and lifting it slightly

Who Is Nose Filler Not Suitable For?

Nose filler is not suitable for every nose. Making the nose smaller, removing a prominent hump, significantly refining the tip, marked deviations and breathing problems such as nasal obstruction cannot be corrected with filler; in these cases rhinoplasty surgery may be considered. In people with very thick skin, the effect of filler may be limited. In people who have had nose surgery before, the doctor decides on suitability and timing.

Nose filler is not performed, or is postponed, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in bleeding disorders, in the presence of active infection or a skin condition on or around the nose, in uncontrolled immune system diseases and with a known allergy to any ingredient of the filler. The procedure is performed on people aged 18 and over.

How Is Nose Filler Performed?

Before the procedure, the doctor carries out an examination, asks about your medical history, the medicines you take and any allergies, and assesses the structure of the nose and your expectations.

The treatment area is cleaned. To make the procedure more comfortable, an anaesthetic cream is applied; many filler products also contain a local anaesthetic. The filler is injected in small amounts at carefully planned points with a fine needle or a cannula, and the doctor then shapes the area. A slight pricking or pressure may be felt during the procedure.

The injection stage usually takes 15–20 minutes. The result can be seen straight after the procedure; if needed, the doctor may recommend a small touch-up a few weeks later.

What Should You Pay Attention to After Nose Filler?

Most people can return to their daily routine after the procedure. In general, the following is recommended:

• Do not touch or press the nose, and do not massage it unless the doctor advises it
• Do not wear glasses that may press on the nose for as long as the doctor advises
• Do not sleep face down during the first days
• Stay away from hot environments such as Turkish baths, saunas and solariums for a few days
• Avoid strenuous exercise for a few days

Redness, mild swelling and bruising may occur after the procedure and usually ease within a few days. It takes about two weeks for the filler to settle and for the final appearance to show.

Risks and Side Effects of Nose Filler

Although nose filler is a non-surgical procedure, like any medical procedure it carries some risks. The most common side effects are redness, swelling, tenderness and bruising at the injection points. These usually resolve within a few days.

Less commonly, asymmetry, irregularities or small nodules (lumps), movement of the filler, infection or an allergic reaction may occur.

The nose has blood vessels close to the surface that are connected to the vessels of the eye, which makes it a high-risk area for filler treatments. A rare but serious complication is the filler blocking a blood vessel (vascular occlusion). This can cause skin discolouration and tissue damage, in very rare cases loss of vision, and requires urgent treatment. If you notice severe pain, paleness or a bluish colour on or around the nose, or any change in vision during or after the procedure, you should contact your doctor without delay.

For this reason, the procedure must be performed by a competent doctor with knowledge of nasal anatomy, using approved products and under appropriate conditions.

How Long Does Nose Filler Last?

Nose filler is not permanent. How long the effect lasts depends on the product used, the amount injected and the person; it is generally reported to last between 9 months and 1 year, and may last longer in some people.

When the effect wears off, the procedure can be repeated after the doctor's assessment.