Surgical VS Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty: What’s Right For You

Written by an Expert Aesthetic Content Writer Lisa.
Reviewed by Expert Medical Director Dr. Raj Thethi
Published on: September 2, 2025
Facial Treatments

Surgical VS Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty

When it comes to reshaping your nose, ‘Surgical VS Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty’ is the first thing on the table. These are the two main ways to change your nose, each having its specific benefits and risks.

Some people want a smoother shape, others wish for a better balance, and some need help with breathing. Whatever the reason, knowing the difference between the two options can make your decision much easier. 

If you are into this decision-making, read this blog till the end to learn all the key differences so you make the right choice.

What is Surgical Rhinoplasty?

Surgical rhinoplasty is another way of saying nose surgery. It is a treatment where a doctor carefully changes the shape of your nose. This can mean making it smaller, bigger, straighter, or smoother.

Why People Choose Surgical Rhinoplasty

Most people who pick surgical rhinoplasty are looking for:

  • A nose that feels more in balance with their face.
  • A fix for a bump, wide bridge, or crooked nose.
  • It helps with breathing if they have problems with airflow.

What is Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty?

Non-surgical rhinoplasty is often called a “liquid nose job”. Instead of surgery, it uses small injections of dermal filler to change the shape of your nose.

The doctor places the filler in certain spots to smooth out bumps, lift the tip, or make the nose look straighter. It cannot make your nose smaller, but it can make it look more balanced according to your facial proportions.

Why People Choose Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty

Non-surgical rhinoplasty is a good choice for people who want:

  • A quick fix with no surgery.
  • To smooth small bumps or uneven areas.
  • A preview of how a nose change might look before committing to surgery.

Learn all about nose reshaping with fillers.

Check out Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty Before and After Results

Non surgical rhinoplasty before after 3

Surgical and Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty: Key Differences

When you are thinking about changing your nose, it helps to see how surgery and non-surgical procedures compare side by side. Here are the main differences to guide you:

  • Procedure

Surgical Rhinoplasty: Done in an operating room under anaesthetic. The surgeon reshapes bone and cartilage.

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty: Done with small filler injections in the clinic. No cutting, no sleeping.

  • Downtime & Recovery

Surgical Rhinoplasty: You may need 1–2 weeks off work. Swelling and bruising can last for weeks.

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty: Back to normal the same day or the next day. Only mild swelling or redness.

  • Results

Surgical Rhinoplasty: Permanent changes that last for life. Can make big improvements, including breathing fixes.

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty: Temporary changes. Great for smoothing bumps or lifting the tip, but cannot fix the function.

  • Cost

Surgical Rhinoplasty: Higher cost, usually £4,000–£7,000 in the UK.

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty: Lower cost, usually £400–£700 per session.

  • Risks & Safety

Surgical Rhinoplasty: Risks include infection, bleeding, or reaction to anaesthetic. It requires a skilled surgeon.

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty: Risks include filler blocking a blood vessel, bruising, or swelling. Must be done by a trained medical professional.

  • Longevity

Surgical Rhinoplasty:  Lasts a lifetime once healed.

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty: Lasts 6–18 months, then needs topping up.

Pros and Cons of Surgical Rhinoplasty

Pros

  • Long-lasting: Once healed, the results stay for life.
  • Can fix function: It helps with breathing problems and appearance.
  • Big change possible: Can reshape size, bridge, tip, or correct crookedness.
  • One-time treatment: Usually, there is no need for repeat procedures.

Cons

  • Downtime: Swelling and bruising can take weeks to settle.
  • Higher cost: Surgery is a bigger investment.
  • Risks: As with any operation, there are risks like infection or bleeding.
  • Recovery comfort: You may feel sore and need time off.

Pros and Cons of Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty/Nose Fillers

Pros

  • Quick: Often done in under an hour.
  • Affordable: Costs less than surgery.
  • Reversible: Filler can be adjusted or dissolved if needed.
  • Less scary: No anaesthetic, no cutting, no long recovery.

Cons

  • Temporary: Results last only 6–18 months.
  • Limited changes: Cannot make the nose smaller or fix breathing.
  • Repeat needed: Top-ups required to keep results.
  • Small risks: Bruising, swelling, or rare filler issues.

Recovery & Aftercare of  Surgical Rhinoplasty

After surgery, your nose and face will feel swollen and tender. You may have bruising around the eyes and a small cast or splint on your nose. 

Most people need 1–2 weeks off work or school to rest. Swelling can take a few months to fully settle, but you’ll notice big changes once the cast comes off.

Aftercare Tips

  • Keep your head raised when resting to reduce swelling.
  • Avoid heavy exercise or bending down for a few weeks.
  • Do not wear glasses on your nose until your doctor says it’s safe.
  • Follow your surgeon’s advice and attend all follow-up visits.

Recovery & Aftercare of Nose Fillers

Recovery is much quicker. You may see a little redness, swelling, or bruising where the filler was injected, but this usually fades in a few days. Most people go back to work the same day.

Aftercare Tips

  • Avoid touching or pressing on your nose for 24 hours.
  • Skip the gym, saunas, or very hot showers for the first 1–2 days.
  • Stay upright for a few hours after treatment to let the filler settle.
  • Call your clinic if you notice unusual pain or skin changes.

Suitability: Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between surgery and non-surgical treatment depends on your needs and comfort.

  • Surgical rhinoplasty may be better if you want a big, permanent change or need help with breathing problems.
  • Non-surgical rhinoplasty may be better if you want a small tweak, a quick fix, or if you are not ready for surgery.

Think about:

  • How much change do you want?
  • How much time can you take off to recover?
  • What is your budget?
  • How comfortable do you feel about surgery?

The best way to decide is to talk to a qualified doctor. A good consultation will help you understand your options clearly.

Importance of Choosing the Right Clinic

No matter which treatment you choose, the clinic and the person treating you make all the difference. Your safety and results depend on this.

  • Experienced doctors/surgeons: Look for professionals who specialise in rhinoplasty and have extensive experience.
  • CQC regulated (UK standard): Always check the clinic is registered with the Care Quality Commission. This means they meet strict safety and care rules.
  • Safety-first approach: A trusted clinic will put your health first, not just results.
  • Tailored treatment plans: Everyone’s nose is different. A good doctor will create a plan that suits your face, not a “one size fits all.”
  • Natural-looking results: The goal is to look like the best version of you, not to look “done.”

If you wish to go for fillers first, consult for non-surgical rhinoplasty in Leeds at Yorkshire Skin Centre.

Your nose, your choice – and we are here to help you every step of the way.

Bottomline

Surgical and non-surgical rhinoplasty both have their own pros and cons. Surgery gives a big, lasting change, while fillers give quick but temporary results. The right choice depends on your goals, your lifestyle, and your comfort level with treatment.

The best step is to talk to an experienced doctor in a safe, trusted clinic. They will listen to your wishes, check your nose, and guide you to the option that fits you best.

FAQs

  1. Which is better, surgical or non-surgical rhinoplasty?

It depends on what you want. Surgery is best for big, permanent changes or breathing problems. Non-surgical is best for small tweaks and quick results with no downtime.

  1. What are the disadvantages of non-surgical rhinoplasty?

The results don’t last forever, it can’t make the nose smaller or fix breathing, and you need repeat treatments to keep the look.

  1. Which is better, surgical or non-surgical?

Neither is “better” for everyone. Surgery gives a lifetime change, while non-surgical treatment is easier and temporary. The right choice depends on your goals.

  1. How long will non-surgical rhinoplasty last?

Results usually last 6 to 18 months, depending on the type of filler and your body’s natural breakdown rate.

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About Dr. Raj Thethi - Medical Reviewer

Dr. Raj Thethi

Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC-registered medical clinic. It is led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetics. Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty.

View all posts by Dr. Raj Thethi

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Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. It can address concerns like:

  • Excess skin on the upper eyelids: This can obstruct vision and create a hooded appearance.

  • Bags under the lower eyelids: These can make you look tired or aged.

  • Drooping lower eyelids: This can also obstruct vision and contribute to a tired appearance.


Types of Blepharoplasty:

  • Upper blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the upper eyelids, removing excess skin and sometimes fat or muscle tissue.

  • Lower blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the lower eyelids, removing excess fat or skin and sometimes repositioning tissues.

  • Asian blepharoplasty: This addresses specific concerns related to the anatomy of Asian eyelids, creating a more defined crease.