How a Botox nose lift works Who’s a good candidate for a Botox nose lift? What to expect during the procedure So, what are the side effects? How long do results last? Botox nose lift vs. liquid rhinoplasty: What’s the difference? Nasal tip plasty: a more permanent solution How else can Botox improve the shape of the nose? Know your nose: Nose tip lift procedures at a glance Ready to explore your options? How a Botox nose lift works A traditional rhinoplasty, or “nose job”, is a surgical procedure that involves incisions and reshaping the nasal bone and cartilage. While it can achieve dramatic results, it’s a major procedure with downtime and recovery.
A Botox tip lift, on the other hand, is a much less invasive option. It uses a type of botulinum toxin, a neurotoxin that relaxes muscles, to target a specific muscle called the depressor septi nasi. This muscle sits at the base of your septum (the wall separating your nostrils) and connects to the tip of your nose. When relaxed, it can cause the tip of your nose to appear slightly lifted.
This Botox treatment is ideal for men and women with a slightly droopy nose tip seeking subtle enhancement without surgery. Realistic expectations are key–this treatment refines, not reshapes.
Quick considerations Ideal for adults with a slightly droopy tip seeking non-surgical refinement Not ideal for major structural concerns or very young patients Talk to your injector if you have thin skin or a very strong depressor septi nasi muscle A consultation with a qualified medical professional can help you determine if a Botox tip lift is the key to achieving your desired nose look.
What to expect during the procedure Getting a Botox nose lift is relatively quick and painless. A small amount of Botox is injected precisely into the depressor septi nasi muscle, just above your top lip. You’ll feel a slight pinch, but most people tolerate the procedure well and don’t require any anesthetic.
Afterward, there’s minimal downtime, and you can usually return to your regular activities right away. We recommend you refrain from lying down for a few hours, massaging or rubbing the treated area, performing strenuous activities and using a hot tub or sauna for the rest of the day. If you experience any discomfort, you can gently ice the area or take an over-the-counter pain medication.
Botox has been extensively studied for decades and is considered both safe and effective. However, as with any injection procedure, there’s a slight risk of minor side effects like temporary bruising, swelling or redness at the injection site.
It’s also important to note that Botox is a muscle relaxer, so it can temporarily affect your ability to make certain facial expressions. For example, you might have slightly less movement in the tip of your nose when smiling. These side effects are usually mild and resolve within a few days.
How long do results last? The results of a Botox nose lift typically last for 3-4 months. After that, the effects of the Botox will wear off, and the muscle will regain its function. If you like the results, you can return for touch-up injections to maintain your desired look.
Another popular form of non-surgical rhinoplasty uses dermal fillers to alter the shape of the nose in what’s called a “liquid nose job.” Fillers are injectable substances, often made of hyaluronic acid, that can add volume and reshape areas of the nose. Popular products used for liquid rhinoplasty are Juvederm and Restylane and are used off-label for this purpose.
Depending on your existing facial features, your dermatologist might recommend one or a combination of both Botox and fillers to achieve your desired results.
Nasal tip plasty: a more permanent solution If you’re ready to make a lasting change to the shape of your nose, a nasal tip plasty may be a good option for you. This surgical procedure involves making small incisions, often hidden inside the nostrils, to access the underlying nasal cartilage. The surgeon then reshapes or removes cartilage to achieve the desired tip definition and projection.
Because it only addresses the tip of the nose, it’s less dramatic than traditional rhinoplasty, but still offers transformative results. Surgical tip plasty can also address functional concerns like breathing difficulties caused by a droopy tip.
This procedure is ideal for individuals with significant concerns about the shape or function of their nose tip, and who are comfortable with surgery and the associated downtime.
While the tip lift is a popular use of Botox for the nose, this wonder injectable can address other concerns, too! Here’s how Botox can be strategically used to further enhance the overall shape of your nose:
Reducing Nostril Flaring: Botox can be injected into the alar flaring muscles located on the sides of your nostrils. When relaxed, these muscles can minimize the appearance of wide or flared nostrils, creating a more balanced and streamlined nose profile.Slimming the Upper Nose: Botox injections in the upper part of the nasalis muscle on the sides of the nose can slim that area, temporarily achieving a slimmer look.Smoothing Nose Wrinkles: If you frequently crinkle your nose, you may notice fine lines across the bridge of your nose, often called “bunny lines.” These can also be softened by targeting the nasalis muscle, creating a smoother and more youthful appearance.Lifting the Brow: Believe it or not, a slightly droopy brow can make your nose appear larger. Botox injections strategically placed along the browline can provide a subtle lift, creating a more balanced appearance and making the nose look proportionally smaller.Know your nose: Nose tip lift procedures at a glance Feature Botox Nose Lift Filler Nose Lift Surgical Tip Plasty (Tip Plasty) Procedure Injection of Botox into depressor septi nasi muscle Injection of dermal fillers into specific areas of the nose tip Surgical procedure to reshape nasal cartilage Results Subtle lift and refinement of the tip, reduces droopiness Adds volume and definition to the tip, can create a more upturned appearance Permanent reshaping of the tip, can address size, projection, and asymmetry Downtime Minimal (may have slight redness or swelling) Minimal (may have slight bruising or swelling) Significant (swelling, bruising, discomfort for several days to weeks) Cost Less expensive Moderately expensive Most expensive Who’s a good candidate? Individuals with a slightly droopy tip seeking subtle enhancement Individuals with a flat or undefined tip desiring more volume or definition Individuals with significant concerns about the shape or function of their nose tip, comfortable with surgery and downtime Focus Relaxes muscle for a lifted effect Adds volume for definition Reshapes underlying cartilage Suitability for Subtle refinement, temporary results Mild to moderate concerns, non-surgical approach Major structural changes, permanent results Safety Minimally invasive, low risk of side effects Minimally invasive, low risk of side effects Surgical procedure, carries risks associated with surgery
Note: This chart is for informational purposes only. Talk to a licensed aesthetician, dermatologist or facial plastic surgeon to determine the best option for you.
If you’re interested in learning more about Botox nose lifts and whether they’re right for you, we recommend scheduling a consultation with a qualified expert. They can answer all your questions and help you create a personalized treatment plan to achieve a perkier, more lifted nose. And if you’re in the Hamilton area, check out us out.
