Is it risky to change your nose?
Yes, if you haven't carefully considered your decision, since it's right in the middle of your face. And you might not like your new nose, even if it's technically perfect. "People don't want the ideal nose described in our manuals—someone can be very unhappy with that nose—they want one that suits their taste," observes Dr. Gerbault. "The nose is the primary focus for people with body dysmorphic disorder," this condition that involves not seeing oneself as one truly is. Another characteristic is that it's the cosmetic procedure with the highest revision rate: "From 5 to 10% among specialist surgeons, from 30 to 50% among others [source: The Rhinoplasty Society]," continues the plastic surgeon. 10% according to the French Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. Nose too short, pinched nostrils, breathing difficulties... Is rhinoplasty really that complicated? "It is necessary to carefully analyze the structures of the nose and take into account the quality and thickness of the skin, because healing plays a significant role in the result," says Dr. Bertrand Mattéoli, cosmetic surgeon.
Is it possible to get a new nose without surgery?
By injecting hyaluronic acid, one can camouflage a minor imperfection, fill a hollow nose (a drooping tip can also be corrected with botulinum toxin injections)... "Drillers have revolutionized the approach to non-surgical rhinoplasty," asserts Dr. Frédéric Braccini, a cosmetic surgeon. "Sometimes, we avoid surgery altogether, with stunning and long-lasting results since hyaluronic acid is only absorbed in one to three years in this area." But, by adding volume around a bump, isn't there a risk of altering the face? "It doesn't work for a significant malformation, an overly large nose, or a tip that needs support; in fact, three-quarters of the indications remain surgical," the specialist acknowledges. Another benefit: correcting post-operative imperfections. "We can release adhesions related to the healing process," explains Dr. Braccini.
Testimonials
They wanted a new nose. Four women share their experiences, from a few months to several years after the procedure.
Sarah, 27 years old, had surgery six months ago.
“I was feeling great the evening of the operation. I kept the packing in my nose for a day, and the dressing was removed a week later. I was a little apprehensive, but I immediately had an idea of the result. My eyes were puffy, like when you've slept a bit too much, and I stayed blue for a month, but hey, that's part of the process. I camouflaged it as best I could. I still can't feel my nose 100%, but it hasn't been painful at all. It's so well done that people who don't know ask me what I did to my hair.”
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