Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure that involves reshaping the nose to improve function and/or appearance. Due to the intricacy of nasal anatomy and the technical demands of the procedure, it is important to seek a qualified provider. Dr Vlad Milovic – our Melbourne Specialist Plastic Surgeon – is trained in a range of rhinoplasty techniques, including methods he learned during his time in Europe. He will discuss whether rhinoplasty may be appropriate for your needs during your consultation.
- Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Risks
- What Is Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty?
- Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Candidates
- Ultrasonic Vs. Traditional Rhinoplasty
- Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Procedure
- Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Recovery
- Risk Transparency & Informed Consent
Risks of Surgery
All surgical procedures carry risks and the potential for complications. While Dr. Milovic is extensively trained and experienced with a comprehensive array of plastic surgery procedures and utilises advanced techniques to help mitigate those risks, patients considering treatment should always be fully aware of them beforehand. Dr. Milovic will go over all risks and potential complications associated with the procedure during the initial consultation, and we are happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
Risks of this procedure include, but are not limited to:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Excessive bleeding
- Pain/discomfort
- Nerve damage
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Complications relating to anaesthesia
- Seroma (a growth/lump near the surgery site that may become infectious)
- Unsatisfactory cosmetic results
- Death
- Poor wound healing
- Potential for an additional surgery
- Blood clots
- Breathing difficulties
- Numbness or other skin sensation changes in the treatment area
- Septal perforation that may be correctable with an additional surgery or may be permanent
- Skin discolouration
- Asymmetrical results
What Is Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty?
Ultrasonic rhinoplasty, also known as Piezo rhinoplasty, is a technique that uses ultrasonic energy to reshape nasal bones and cartilage with precision. This method may reduce the need for traditional bone-breaking instruments in some cases. Dr Milovic is trained in this approach and will assess whether it is appropriate for your individual anatomy and surgical goals during your consultation.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty?
Patients who are good candidates for rhinoplasty may also be suitable for ultrasonic rhinoplasty, particularly if they are concerned about the visibility of external incisions once healed. Broadly speaking, patients considering ultrasonic rhinoplasty should:
- Be in good general health
- Have reasonable expectations for the result
- Understand and be able to complete the pre- and post-operative requirements
- Desire cosmetic and/or functional enhancement of the nose due to humps, bumps, asymmetry, difficulty breathing caused by a deviated septum, dissatisfying tip shape or angle or another issue
During your consultation with Dr Milovic, he can create a 3D digital simulation of your ultrasonic rhinoplasty procedure and a potential visualisation of your final result using the VECTRA®H2 3D imaging system. This approach can show you how different techniques can deliver various outcomes, while also setting realistic expectations for the result you could achieve. Learn more about this technology on our rhinoplasty page.
Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Vs. Traditional Rhinoplasty
In ultrasonic rhinoplasty, Dr Milovic will modify the structure of the nose with an open tip rhinoplasty access. The Piezo tools, though, are more sophisticated than a hammer and chisel. With almost every traditional rhinoplasty, plastic surgeons need to use a hammer and chisel to break nasal bones so they can be moved, narrowed, and shaped. Ultrasonic rhinoplasty, on the other hand, typically allows for fine sculpting and remodelling of the nasal bones with minimal trauma to the surrounding tissues. For this reason, it is a more complex procedure than traditional rhinoplasty; however, there is generally minimised bruising and swelling.
The appropriate technique for your needs will depend on the particulars of your treatment program, and Dr Milovic will review your options and provide his recommendation during your initial consultation.
What Should I Expect During the Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Procedure?
Surgery will be performed in an accredited surgical facility, and a certified (FANZCA) anaesthetist will help to ensure your experience is as comfortable and as safe as possible. Ultrasonic rhinoplasty typically takes around one to two hours to complete, depending on the complexity of your program, and you should be able to return home the same day as the procedure. Dr Milovic will perform this procedure only at accredited day or private hospitals under a general anaesthesia, for your ultimate safety.
What Will Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Recovery Be Like?
Some bruising, swelling, and discomfort should be expected, though you may experience these symptoms less intensely than you would with a traditional rhinoplasty procedure. We can provide medication to potentially alleviate pain, and after a few days these effects should begin to subside. You will have regular post-operative follow-ups with Dr Milovic to monitor your recovery progress. Strenuous activity and exercise should be avoided for the first several weeks, though most normal daily habits can be performed after about one to two weeks. Final results can take time, and minor swelling may persist for up to a year, but you should have an excellent idea of the outcome after a month or two.
Risk Transparency & Informed Consent
Before proceeding with nose surgery (rhinoplasty), it’s essential to be equipped with reliable, easy-to-understand information about the procedure. In keeping with AHPRA’s 2025 guidelines, our team ensures that you are fully informed of the potential benefits, risks, alternatives, costs, and likely outcomes associated with rhinoplasty.
We recommend reviewing the resources provided on our site and bringing up any questions you may have during your consultation. You will be supported throughout the consent process, and we’re happy to explain how to raise concerns with AHPRA or other appropriate health organisations should the need arise.
Explore Dr Milovic’s Range of Nasal and Facial Procedures
If you are considering nose reshaping surgery or other facial treatments, our companion website features comprehensive information about these services. There you can find in-depth guides on facelift surgery, eyelid surgery, and other procedures designed to help restore or refine facial features.