Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Blog | Dr. Linderman

When considering having a rhinoplasty procedure performed, it is important to be sure you are fully aware of the types of surgery that can be done and which one will best serve your needs. Your cosmetic surgeon should discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both open and closed rhinoplasty techniques before any final decisions are made.

Open Rhinoplasty
The open rhinoplasty technique involves making a small incision in the columella. This is the section of skin at the bottom of your nose, between your nostrils. In open rhinoplasty, this incision is followed by lifting the skin away from your nose in order to expose the cartilage and bone underneath.

This allows the surgeon a better view of the area that will be altered during your procedure. It also allows easier access to the tip of your nose if you are requiring adjustments to that cartilage as well. The small scar left from open rhinoplasty usually heals with a barely perceptible scar.

Closed Rhinoplasty
During a closed rhinoplasty procedure, the surgery is performed inside the structure of your nose. When the procedure does not require any complicated re-structuring, your surgeon is able to perform a closed procedure, which leaves no exterior scarring.

Both open and closed rhinoplasty offer specific advantages to the patient. The determining factors as to which procedure is right for you will depend on the re-structuring and re-shaping your nose requires and the recommendations and preferences of your cosmetic surgeon. As with any cosmetic surgery procedure, be sure you contact a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon and discuss the details of the procedure in full before making any decisions.