Rhinoplasty surgery (aka, ‘a nose job’) is unique in that no two patients are ever operated on in exactly the same manner. For this type of treatment, the most appropriate strategy will be determined by the objectives, nose, and facial symmetry of each person.
However, when it comes to the broad method of performing the surgery, there are two distinct approaches:
- Closed Rhinoplasty
- Open Rhinoplasty
It’s normal to wonder which one is best for you if you’re in the market for a rhinoplasty surgery. For this reason, we’ve created this guide to better explain the difference between the two types of procedures.
Table of Contents
What Is ‘Open Rhinoplasty’?
The open or also known as external rhinoplasty approach is yet another option for getting a more natural-looking nose makeover. Despite the fact that the incision is made on the exterior of the nose, the scar is not visible until the wound has healed completely. The recovery period is somewhat longer, but it allows for more significant alterations.
What Is ‘Closed Rhinoplasty’?
Rhinoplasty using a closed or internal approach is the more prevalent procedure. The closed approach is used in approximately 9/10 nose jobs on average. The reason behind this is that since all of the incisions are made on the inside of the nose, there is no visible scarring and hence reduced recovery time following the treatment.
To get access to the bone and cartilage, the plastic surgeon creates an incision inside the nostrils and elevates the skin to gain access to them.
Differences Between the Two Procedures
Listed below are some of the most prominent distinctions between the two types of rhinoplasty procedures, open and closed:
Purpose
The goals of open and closed rhinoplasty are somewhat different. A closed rhinoplasty alters the nasal bone and cartilage in the following ways:
- Altering the size of the nose
- Enhancing the nose
- Reshaping the nose
- Improving tip refinement
- Reducing nasal lumps or humps.
With an open rhinoplasty, it is possible to make more significant changes to the nose. This procedure is particularly useful for making a large alteration to the tip of the nose or when repairing a twisted or broken nose. In the case of cartilage grafts or significant alterations in projection, it is a viable treatment option.
Incisions
Closed rhinoplasty is a procedure in which all incisions are made within the nostril. Others will not be able to see them because of this. During an open rhinoplasty procedure, a second incision is done on the columella also known
as the skin between the nostrils. This indicates the presence of a minor external scar. This scar
is difficult to notice even after it has healed.
Risks
There are obviously dangers associated with every surgical procedure. The hazards associated with rhinoplasty surgery are the same for both open and closed procedures. Following the procedure, it is predicted that there would be some transient side effects, including:
- Bruising
- Nasal Blockage
- Swelling
- Some Nasal Bleeding
These symptoms are your body’s natural response to the surgery and are a normal component of the healing process after a surgical procedure. In accordance with the quantity of the surgery performed, your plastic surgeon may provide you with an estimate of how long you can anticipate these symptoms to remain. Nonetheless, it varies from one individual to another in terms of intensity.
Recovery
Closed rhinoplasty does have a shorter recovery time than open rhinoplasty. However, the initial healing phase for both treatments is generally between 1-2 weeks in length. The majority of patients heal in 7 days or less, and the splint may normally be removed after the fifth or sixth day. Although the external healing is rapid, the inside mending and healing of your nose will continue for the following 1 to 3 years after the surgery which is completely normal depending on the severity of your surgery.
Is Open or Closed Rhinoplasty Better?
If you’re contemplating between these procedures it’s important to know that both techniques have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Instead of focusing on the strategy you like, you should examine what kind of outcomes you would want to achieve from your surgery. When you meet your plastic surgeon, they will use their knowledge and experience to evaluate which procedure will provide you with the most pleasing cosmetic results.
At the end of the day, the kind of surgery that is selected for you will be in your best interests in order to obtain the precise results that you want.
