Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nose job, has been a popular cosmetic procedure for individuals seeking to enhance the appearance of their nose. Traditionally, rhinoplasty has involved surgical intervention, but with advancements in aesthetic medicine, non-surgical rhinoplasty has emerged as an alternative option. In this article, we will explore three crucial questions regarding non-surgical rhinoplasty: its permanence, safety, and and if it’s permissible from a religious perspective, particularly an Islamic one.
Non-surgical rhinoplasty, also known as liquid rhinoplasty or nose filler, involves injecting dermal fillers to alter the shape or appearance of the nose. Unlike traditional surgical rhinoplasty, non-surgical procedures do not involve cutting or reshaping the nasal bones. As a result, the effects of non-surgical rhinoplasty are temporary.
Typically, dermal fillers used in non-surgical rhinoplasty are made from hyaluronic acid, which is a substance naturally found in the body. These fillers provide immediate results, but they gradually break down over time. On average, the effects of non-surgical rhinoplasty can last anywhere from 12 to 18 months, depending on your metabolism, lifestyle, and the specific filler used.
If a person wishes to maintain the results, they will need periodic touch-up treatments. However, the body does respond to the treatments by increasing collagen locally where the fillers have been. This mean that the touch ups become less frequent and require less filler than the initial treatment.
It’s important to consult with your injector so that realistic expectations can be set about how long it will last.
When performed by a trained professional, non-surgical rhinoplasty is considered safe for most people. However, like any medical procedure, it comes with potential risks and side effects. Common side effects may include swelling, bruising, and temporary discomfort at the injection sites. These effects usually subside within a few days.
The most critical factor in ensuring safety is selecting a qualified provider. A skilled medical professional will conduct a thorough assessment during a consultation, consider your medical history, and discuss any potential risks before proceeding with the procedure. Patients should also disclose any allergies or previous adverse reactions to dermal fillers.
This is a major concern and for good reason! The blood vessels that supply the retina run down the side of the nose. Injecting directly into them can restrict the bloodflow and cause blindness if it’s not detected early. But fillers are injected in the centre of the nasal bridge so the injector shouldn’t be close to the vessels anyway. The exception to this is if the anatomy of the region has been altered in some way by previous trauma (e.g. a broken nose) or surgery (surgical rhinoplasty). In these cases you should find a practitioner who is able to perform injections with assisted imaging such as ultrasound. This ensures that the vessels can be safely avoided.
Whether it is permissible from a religious perspective is a matter of interpretation. In Islam, for example, the acceptability of cosmetic procedures is a subject of debate among scholars.
Non-surgical rhinoplasty, which involves temporary alterations through dermal fillers, is generally considered less invasive than surgical procedures. The intention behind the procedure also plays a crucial role in determining its permissibility. If the motive behind non-surgical rhinoplasty is to correct a genuine physical deformity, address breathing difficulties, or improve self-esteem in a modest and balanced manner, many scholars may consider it permissible (halal).
In the hadith, Sahih Bukhari, it refers to “permanent changes” to the body as being haram. An example of this is often given as having a tattoo. So on this basis many have argued that the temporary nature of fillers and Botox® means that they are permissible.
However, if the procedure is driven by vanity, excessive desire for beauty, or could lead to arrogance or harm, it may be discouraged or even considered impermissible (haram) by some religious authorities. Given that you are considered the creation of Allah (swt) it could be argued that changing your appearance is changing his creation.
Ultimately, if you’re not comfortable with how it makes you feel as a Muslim then it’s probably better to hold fire on your decision to have such a treatment. Consulting a knowledgeable scholar who you trust would be the best course of action for you to feel confident in your own individual circumstance.
Non-surgical rhinoplasty offers a temporary yet effective alternative to traditional surgical nose jobs. While its results are not permanent, it can be a viable option for individuals seeking minor aesthetic improvements without the downtime of surgery. Safety is paramount in any medical procedure, and choosing a qualified professional is essential to minimize risks.
Regarding religious perspectives, the acceptability of non-surgical rhinoplasty can vary among different religious scholars. It is crucial for individuals to seek guidance from knowledgeable religious authorities and consider the intentions behind the procedure.
As with any medical or cosmetic decision, thorough research and consultation with professionals are vital to making an informed choice that aligns with both personal beliefs and physical well-being.
