Ultrasonic rhinoplasty: precision reshaping for a natural, refined look

Ultrasonic rhinoplasty is a new, innovative technique that reshapes the nose’s structure utilising non-invasive ultrasonic waves. In this article, Dr Yannis Alexandrides explains the ultrasonic rhinoplasty procedure.



Rhinoplasties, also known as ‘nose jobs’, were historically performed as an open procedure, where incisions are made in the nostrils and along the bottom of the nose so that a flap of skin can be flipped back, exposing bone and cartilage, which is what the surgeons will manipulate to reshape the nose. It is a long procedure, at least three to four hours long, and it can result in visible scarring, heavy bruising and extensive swelling for several weeks as it heals. This traditional technique can give less predictable results, which may necessitate revisional surgery. However, with the technological advancement of ultrasound utilisation, patients can now explore less painful and invasive methods of achieving the nose of their dreams.

What is an ultrasonic rhinoplasty?

Most people may be more familiar with ultrasound as being associated with imaging scans, such as assessing musculoskeletal injuries, identifying unknown masses in the body, and monitoring fetal health, but ultrasonic waves can be utilised in many more ways. In cosmetic procedures, they can be used to precisely sculpt tissue, cartilage, and bone, without sustaining trauma . Most ultrasonic rhinoplasties are conducted with the patient under a general anaesthetic, but some patients may prefer instead to have a local anaesthetic and sedation.

What happens during an ultrasonic rhinoplasty?

To perform ultrasonic rhinoplasties at 111 Harley St., Dr Yannis uses a specialised instrument with an ultrafine point called a Piezo, which emits the ultrasonic waves that target bone directly to ‘shave’ away unwanted or unneeded bulk, whilst still sparing the blood vessels and nerves. The only incisions involved are narrow ones made within the nostrils.

What are the benefits of an ultrasonic rhinoplasty?

The benefits of ultrasonic rhinoplasty as compared to traditional techniques are plentiful, such as:

·        Less visible scarring

·        Less tissue trauma, resulting in a faster recovery time

·        Increased accuracy and precision, improving the symmetry of the final symmetry

·        Subtler, more natural results which uphold facial harmony

·        Less bruising and swelling during the recovery (a week)

·        More longevity, with results remaining stable over time

·        Vital nasal structures are preserved

What to know before undergoing an ultrasonic rhinoplasty?

An ultrasonic rhinoplasty cannot add bulk or volume. It is best utilised to remove bumps or bony irregularities, and reshape the bridge and tip of the nose. Patients who are most suited to undergo the procedure are those who are healthy enough for surgery and have realistic expectations about the scope of the procedure – as with all surgeries, there is still a risk of complications like bleeding, infection, scarring, swelling, and asymmetry. However, these risks are less likely with an ultrasonic procedure than with a traditional rhinoplasty, and the use of the Piezo tool further reduces these risks.