If you are interested in having rhinoplasty nose surgery, whether for cosmetic or medical reasons, there are different ways the procedure can be performed. These techniques are referred to as open and closed. The type of procedure you will require depends on a number of factors, including why you want or need the surgery in the first place, what needs to be done, and the preference of the surgeon. This article provides general information about the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty surgery.
Closed Rhinoplasty
A closed rhinoplasty means no incisions are made on the outside of the nose. Your surgeon will need to make incisions inside the nostrils. Often, this is used when work needs to be done to the bridge or nostrils and not to the tip. Many surgeon will choose closed procedures in specific situations, such as:
- The nose needs correction to fix a hump in the bridge.
- The tip doesn’t need any work, and it is not drooping.
- The tip of the nose is not sticking out too far from the face.
- The bottom of the nasal passages do not need any work.
Overall, when you speak with a nose surgeon, they will state when a closed procedure could be used, if possible. Closed rhinoplasty can be used for a nasal hump reduction, in a patient with a straight nose and nasal septum. This method allows your surgeon to work without creating an external incision. However, do not assume that you will be able to go with a closed procedure. There are certain circumstances that do require an open rhinoplasty.
Open Rhinoplasty
Open rhinoplasty involves making an incision under your nose. If you look up in a mirror, you will see a small strip of skin between your nostrils. This is called the columella and during an open procedure, this is where the incision will be placed. The main reason why the open procedure may be chosen is to give you surgeon access to the tip of the nose so that the cartilages can be fine-tuned. By having open access to the tip, your surgeon can often get more natural and refinedresults.
Many people worry about the open rhinoplasty leaving a scar. However, most patients heal up with little or no scar whatsoever. If it is visible, it will not be noticeable.
Other Differences
Other than the incision spot, there aren’t really any differences in the surgeries. They will require the same time to heal and will come along with the same level of discomfort. The results will depend on what you are getting done and why. Whether an open or closed technique is used does not affect the length of recovery. Other factors, such as the extent of the work needed, will have a greater effect on your recovery time.
The most important thing to do when you meet with your surgeon for a consultation is discuss what type of procedure they recommend for your own nose concerns. Some surgeons prefer one procedure over the other. Others will choose between open and closed based on individual circumstances. No matter what, you should know what will be done in advance of your surgery, so that you can be prepared for the results. So, discuss what you expect from your nose work and find out how the surgeon will go about making it happen.
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