Closed vs. Open Rhinoplasty: The Differences to Know
Planning your first nose job but unsure about open vs closed rhinoplasty? This page can help.
This guide from the Sadeghi Center for Plastic Surgery will help you choose the best rhinoplasty procedure based on your needs and lifestyle.
What this page covers:
- Description and difference between open and closed rhinoplasty
- Differences in techniques and recovery time between open and closed rhinoplasty
- Choosing a surgeon for your open or closed rhinoplasty
Open rhinoplasty is more often done as a reconstruction procedure on people who have lost their nose due to injury or other factors. Closed rhinoplasty is usually used when people have a deviated septum, which can impede breathing.
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Understanding Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves altering the nasal structures to improve the nose’s shape, size, and functionality.
This versatile procedure can be performed for cosmetic reasons, such as refining the nasal tip or removing a hump, or for functional purposes, like correcting a deviated septum or addressing nasal valve collapse.
The ultimate aim of rhinoplasty is to create a natural-looking nose that harmonizes with the rest of the facial features, enhancing overall facial symmetry and balance.
What is Open Rhinoplasty?
Open rhinoplasty procedure involves making a small incision across the columella—the strip of tissue separating your nostrils.
This approach provides greater visibility and access to the nasal structure. It’s often preferred for more complex cases, such as reshaping or reconstruction, allowing the surgeon to manipulate nasal tissues with precision.
What is Closed Rhinplasty?
Closed rhinoplasty involves incisions that are all made within the confines of your nostrils, leaving no external scars.
The modifications to the nasal structure are performed through these internal incisions, providing a less invasive option with generally quicker recovery times. This method is suitable for less extensive modifications.
Open vs Closed Rhinoplasty: Technique Comparison
| Aspect | Open Rhinoplasty | Closed Rhinoplasty |
| Incision Differences | Involves a small incision across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils). This external cut leaves a visible scar but allows for greater surgical access. | All incisions are made within the nostrils, leaving no visible external scars. |
| Visualization in Surgery | Offers complete visibility of the nasal structures due to the lifted nasal skin, allowing the surgeon to have full access for more complex restructuring. | Provides limited visibility since the surgeon operates through the nostrils, suitable for less complex adjustments. |
| Recovery | More extensive swelling, longer period of visible healing. | Reduced swelling, quicker healing time |
Pros and Cons
| Feature | Open Rhinoplasty | Closed Rhinoplasty |
| Benefits | Better view of nasal structures, allowing for more precise modifications. | No visible scars as all incisions are made within the nostrils. |
| Allows for extensive manipulation of nasal shape, which is beneficial for complex changes or corrections. | Potentially shorter recovery period compared to open rhinoplasty. | |
| Potential Drawbacks | Scar on the underside of the nose may be visible up close and take time to heal. | Limited access to nasal structures, which might not be suitable for more complicated cases. |
| Often preferred for revision rhinoplasty due to the need for extensive modifications. |
Procedure
Both open and closed rhinoplasty procedures aim to reshape your nose, with key differences in how the surgeon accesses the nasal structures.
Open Rhinoplasty
- Your surgeon makes a small incision across the columella.
- The skin is delicately lifted off the underlying structures to reveal the nasal anatomy.
- The surgeon reshapes the bone and cartilage, which can include breaking the nose to reduce its size, refining the tip, or removing a hump.
- The skin is laid back over the new framework.
- The incision is closed with stitches, some of which may dissolve on their own or might need removal later.
Closed Rhinoplasty
- All incisions are made within your nostrils, leaving no visible external scars.
- The surgeon has a more limited view and access but still reshapes the nose through these internal cuts.
- The bone and cartilage are reshaped, with considerations made due to the less invasive nature of the approach.
- The skin is not lifted off entirely. Instead, it remains in place, which may limit the extent of changes possible.
- Internal stitches are used to close the incisions, which are typically absorbable.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from rhinoplasty surgery requires patience and careful attention to post-operative care instructions.
In the initial weeks following the procedure, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and the presence of a temporary nasal splint. It is crucial to follow the surgeon’s guidelines closely to ensure proper healing and to avoid any activities that could potentially harm the surgical site.
Following these instructions will help facilitate a smoother recovery process and achieve the best possible results.
Post-Surgery Recovery
The recovery period for rhinoplasty surgery varies depending on the extent of the procedure, but most patients can expect to return to work within one to two weeks.
During this time, it is essential to keep the nose clean and dry and to avoid inserting anything into the nostrils until healing is complete. Patients should also steer clear of strenuous activities and protect their nose from any potential trauma.
Adequate rest is important for recovery, and it is recommended to sleep with the head elevated, using extra pillows or a reclining chair, to reduce swelling and promote healing.
Choosing a Surgeon for Your Open or Closed Rhinoplasty
Choosing a surgeon with expertise and knowledge in rhinoplasty is important. A procedure like this can be life-changing, so it’s best to have a surgeon who knows what they’re doing and has extensive experience with it.
Check Their Qualifications and Experience
Check for a surgeon’s certification, especially from the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. Board certification means your surgeon has met standards of education, training, and ethics.
Ask for your surgeon’s before-and-after photos of previous patients. Assess the results for consistency and quality. It’s important that your surgeon has proficiency in both open and closed rhinoplasty techniques, as each case may require a different approach.
Consultation Process
The surgeon should take time to understand your needs and the outcomes of the surgery during the consultation. They should also be transparent with the results and tell you about the process. It’s all about making you comfortable despite a rather intimidating procedure.
Choosing the Right Rhinoplasty Technique for You
Each method has its own advantages, depending on your goals and the complexity of the changes required.
At the Sadeghi Center for Plastic Surgery, we prioritize your vision and comfort, guiding you through choosing the perfect approach for your unique facial structure and cosmetic desires.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve your ideal outcome with precision and care.
