What the treatment involves
Hyaluronic acid filler is placed in small amounts along the nose — for example to soften the appearance of a bump by adding volume above or below it, to improve the look of minor irregularities, or to make subtle changes to the angle of the tip.
Filler adds volume. It cannot make the nose smaller or narrower, cannot improve breathing, and is not an alternative to surgical rhinoplasty. The blood supply of the nose is also connected to the vessels that supply the eye, which is why it carries a higher risk of serious complications than many other areas. Your practitioner will explain whether filler is a reasonable option for you, the risks, and the alternatives — including a surgical opinion or not having treatment.
Who may be suitable
- Adults aged 18 or over who would like to discuss a small change to the profile of their nose.
- People who are in good general health, understand that filler adds volume rather than reducing size, and have accepted the higher risk associated with this area.
- Suitability is always confirmed in person after a face-to-face assessment and a review of your medical history.
When it may not be suitable
- Non-surgical rhinoplasty is not offered to anyone under 18. It may not be suitable if you have had surgery on or an injury to your nose, as changes to the anatomy and blood supply can increase risk, or if you would like a smaller nose or a change to your breathing — in which case a surgical opinion is more appropriate.
- It may also not be appropriate during pregnancy or breastfeeding, if there is active infection or inflammation, or with certain medical conditions or medications. If concerns about your appearance are causing you significant distress, we may suggest talking this through with your GP first. Your practitioner will discuss this with you.
Potential benefits
- May improve the appearance of minor irregularities in the profile of the nose without surgery.
- Hyaluronic acid fillers are temporary and are gradually broken down by the body.
- A conservative approach using small amounts, so you can review the effect before deciding on anything further.
What to expect
Your consultation covers your goals, medical history, an assessment of your nose and face, and a discussion of options, the specific risks of this area, alternatives and costs. You will have time to consider the information before deciding.
If you go ahead, the skin is cleansed and the filler is placed in small amounts with a fine needle or a blunt-tipped cannula. Many fillers contain a local anaesthetic to improve comfort.
You will be given written aftercare information and details of how to contact the clinic urgently if needed.
Recovery and aftercare
- Some swelling, tenderness, redness or bruising is common and usually settles over the following days.
- Your practitioner will advise on what to avoid for a period afterwards — for example pressing on or massaging the nose, wearing heavy glasses, strenuous exercise and heat.
- Seek help immediately if you notice increasing pain, or the skin of the nose or face turning pale, dusky, blue or mottled — contact the clinic straight away. If you notice any change in your vision, or cannot reach the clinic, call 999 or go to A&E.
Your practitioner will give you aftercare advice specific to your treatment, which may differ from the general guidance above.
Results and longevity
Some change is visible immediately, but the final result is usually assessed once any swelling has settled.
How long filler lasts varies between products and individuals. Your practitioner will explain what to expect for the product proposed — no specific duration can be guaranteed.
Individual results vary.
Risks and side effects
- Common: swelling, bruising, redness and tenderness, usually short-lived.
- Less common: asymmetry, lumps or irregularities, visible filler, filler spreading so the bridge looks wider, infection, or an allergic or inflammatory reaction.
- Rare but serious: the nose carries a higher risk than many areas of filler entering or blocking a blood vessel (vascular occlusion). This can cause skin damage and scarring and, rarely, loss of vision, which may not recover.
- Your practitioner will discuss the risks that apply to you before you consent.
If you experience severe or worsening pain, skin colour changes, changes in your vision or difficulty breathing after any treatment, seek urgent medical help (call 999) and contact the clinic.
Pricing
£250- Non-surgical rhinoplasty£250
The cost of treatment depends on your assessment and the plan agreed. Your practitioner will explain all costs before you decide whether to go ahead. See our full price list.
Common questions
Can non-surgical rhinoplasty make my nose smaller?
No. Filler adds volume, so it cannot reduce the size or width of the nose. It can sometimes make a profile look smoother or straighter by adding volume in carefully chosen places. If you would like your nose to be smaller, a surgical opinion is more appropriate.
Can I have it if I've had a nose job?
Possibly not. Previous surgery or injury changes the anatomy and blood supply of the nose, which can increase the risk of complications. Your practitioner will assess this carefully and may advise against treatment.
Can it be reversed?
Hyaluronic acid fillers can usually be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if needed. Your practitioner will explain how this applies to the product proposed and the clinic's arrangements.
This information is general and is not a substitute for a consultation. Suitability for treatment is decided by the practitioner after an individual assessment, and individual results vary.
