Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty: Which Approach Is Right for You?
Rhinoplasty is a chance to change your nose for the better. It can improve your appearance and breathing. It can also give you the confidence to finally love how you look. It can balance and beautify your face and fix breathing problems caused by nasal flaws. That said, did you know there are two primary approaches to rhinoplasty? They are open and closed rhinoplasty; both require different incisions on your nose.
What Is Open Rhinoplasty?
The cosmetic surgeon cuts the columella, the skinny strip between your nostrils, to conduct open rhinoplasty. This lets the surgeon lift your nose’s skin and easily access the bone and cartilage underneath. Open rhinoplasty offers more visibility and precision for the surgeon, especially for complex revision cases. It also enables more extensive reshaping and grafting of the nasal structures.
Advantages of Open Rhinoplasty
It can provide better results for patients who need significant changes to their nose tip, bridge, or nostrils.
It can allow for more accurate and stable nasal asymmetry, deviation, or collapse correction.
It can be easier for teaching and learning, as the surgeon can see the entire nose anatomy.
What Is Closed Rhinoplasty?
To perform closed rhinoplasty, the surgeon makes incisions only inside the nostrils without cutting the columella. This means your nose’s skin stays attached to the underlying structures. The surgeon reshapes your nose from within through tiny openings. Closed rhinoplasty suit patients who need minor to moderate nose shape or size changes.
Advantages of Closed Rhinoplasty
It does not leave any visible scars on your nose.
It can cause less swelling and bruising of your nose, which can heal faster than open rhinoplasty.
It can require a shorter surgery time and recovery period than open rhinoplasty.
Which Approach Is Right for You?
It would be best to consider your goals, nose anatomy, and surgeon’s expertise to choose between open and closed rhinoplasty. A board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty can help you choose the best technique. The doctor will examine your nose and listen to your concerns. Additionally, they will discuss the advantages and drawbacks of each strategy.
Open and closed rhinoplasty are two different ways to perform nose surgery. Both have pros and cons, and neither one is better than the other. The best approach for you depends on your individual needs and goals.
For more information on open and closed rhinoplasty, visit Clark Plastic & Hand Surgery at our McKinney, Texas, office. Call 469-675-3659 to schedule an appointment today.
