Closed Rhinoplasty

While it is true that rhinoplasty is one of the most common forms of plastic surgery, there is more than just one procedure. This brings us to the subject of closed rhinoplasty.

Closed Rhinoplasty

When choosing plastic surgery, it is important to have all of the information and options for your type of procedure presented to you beforehand. This is especially important with rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty is the medical term for a “nose job”, and it literally translates to “nose forming” or “nose shaping”. In performing a rhinoplasty procedure, surgeons have two choices on how to proceed: open rhinoplasty or closed rhinoplasty.

Open rhinoplasty is by far the most common technique used to cosmetically (and medically) correct issues with the nose. In open rhinoplasty, a small incision is made in the columella, which is the small column of skin that separates the nostrils. When this incision is made, the surgeon is able to lift the skin off of the nose exposing all of the tissue underneath including the cartilage. Surgeons find this easier to work with than closed rhinoplasty, as they are more easily able to see all of the nasal structures. They can also work on the nasal tip cartilage in its natural position, making it easier to see how the final result of the surgery will come out. The biggest disadvantage to this surgery is the little scar left on the outside of the nose in the columella, though it does heal to an unnoticeable size in most people.

Closed rhinoplasty, on the other hand, leaves no external scarring. All of the incisions made with closed rhinoplasty take place internally through other openings in the nose, and some feel that it heals more quickly. Closed rhinoplasty is better for nasal surgery that requires less extensive shaping and work than someone who would need open rhinoplasty. It is not recommended for extensive reconstruction or surgeries that require a lot of work done on the cartilage at the tip of the nose. The two biggest advantages to closed rhinoplasty are the lack of any scars, and usually, a shorter surgery time.

Only your board certified plastic surgeon will know for sure whether open rhinoplasty or closed rhinoplasty is the right surgery for your nasal needs. Be sure to consult with your doctor and weigh the options carefully before choosing a type of rhinoplasty. If you have your heart set on closed rhinoplasty and your surgeon feels it is not right for you, a second opinion is always a good option. Just be sure to feel completely comfortable with your choice before proceeding.

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